Nine Parts. Cont.

This book is a curious mixture of history, opinion, and experience. I think perhaps this is one of the most "Orientalist" accounts we've read, worse in some ways than our friend Biddulph. I say worse because this author has access to more information than Biddulph could have imagined in his day. Knowledge is limited only by imagination and motivation in today's information age.

Of course, you could argue her experiences have shaped her prejudices and she has ample reason to so pointedly discuss the more negative aspects of Middle Eastern existence. She has worked for several years between these countries and cultures and, in doing so, has encountered numerous instances where her Western values have been challenged. Interestingly enough, unlike Montagu, Bell, or Duff-Gordon, Brooks seems unable to focus much beyond the negative. I've yet to identify anything she truly admires.

I'm beginning to suspect her feminism is getting in the way of deeper introspection and acceptance. Not that I condone the hardships or horrors visited upon Muslim women, but I can't imagine it's as bleak a situation for all Muslim women.