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A History of Iran by Michael Axworthy
A History of Iran by Michael Axworthy
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A History of Iran: Empire of the Mind
by Michael Axworthy
🏛️ CIVILIZATIONAL IDENTITY & GEOPOLITICAL EVOLUTION
A scholarly examination of the enduring Persian "Empire of the Mind," tracing the tension between rigorous religious dogma and a rich, hedonistic cultural heritage.
Extended Synopsis
In A History of Iran, acclaimed historian Michael Axworthy provides a definitive account of one of the world's oldest and most complex civilizations. Moving beyond the headlines, Axworthy explores the "Empire of the Mind"—a cultural identity so potent it has allowed Persian influence to survive countless conquests and political upheavals. The narrative spans from the Achaemenid Empire of the sixth century BC through the Islamic conquest, the Safavid era, and the seismic 1979 Revolution, concluding with an analysis of modern Iran's nuclear aspirations.
The text masterfully navigates the inherent contradictions of the Iranian state. Axworthy juxtaposes the censorious nature of the Shi'a Muslim clerics with a literary tradition that celebrates wine, beauty, and physical love. He highlights a modern society where nearly 60 percent of university students are women, yet they live under one of the world's most restrictive dress codes. This revised edition provides essential academic context for understanding Iran’s pivotal role in global stability and its internal struggle between tradition and modernity.
Author Biography
Michael Axworthy (1962–2019) was a British historian and academic who served as the Director of the Centre for Persian and Iranian Studies at the University of Exeter. Previously, he headed the Iran Section of the British Foreign and Commonwealth Office. His deep diplomatic and academic background allowed him to provide nuanced, objective insights into Iranian history and culture, making him one of the most respected Western authorities on the subject.
Reader Targeting
- Middle Eastern Studies Students: Academics requiring a comprehensive timeline of Persian political and cultural shifts.
- Geopolitical Analysts: Professionals seeking historical context for Iran’s current foreign policy and domestic tensions.
- History Enthusiasts: Readers interested in the endurance of civilizational identity through periods of religious and social transformation.
Accolades & Awards
- Hailed as the "definitive" history of the nation by major academic journals.
- Selected as an essential text for understanding the historical roots of contemporary Middle Eastern conflict.
Product Specifications
| ISBN-13: | 9780465098767 |
| ISBN-10: | 0465098762 |
| Publisher: | Basic Books |
| Format: | Paperback |
| Publication Date: | 2016-05-24 |
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