Lawrence of Arabia: An Encyclopedia

This encyclopedia, the first work of its kind, includes more than 800 alphabetically arranged entries on subjects related to Lawrence and his works. Covered are such topics as Lawrence's knowledge of Islam, the details of his military campaigns, his legacy in film and popular culture, his family members and acquaintances, his biographers, and important book dealers, collectors, and scholars interested in his writings. Most of the entries mention works for further reading, and the volume closes with a selected, general bibliography. Thomas Edward Lawrence (1888-1935), better known as Lawrence of Arabia, is one of the 20th century's most legendary figures. As a British liaison officer during World War I, he led the Arab revolt against the Turks. After the war, he helped change the political geography of the Middle East by advocating independence for Iraq. Regardless of his substantial military and political accomplishments, Lawrence aspired to be a man of letters. He recorded his Arab experiences in Seven Pillars of Wisdom, criticized the Royal Air Force in The Mint, and prepared a translation of Homer's Odyssey. He also engaged in voluminous correspondence with many of the leading figures of his day. This encyclopedia, the first work of its kind, chronicles his fascinating and diverse career. Included are over 800 alphabetically arranged entries on subjects related to Lawrence and his works. The encyclopedia covers such topics as Lawrence's knowledge of Islam, the details of his military campaigns, his legacy in film and popular culture, his family members and acquaintances, his biographers, and important book dealers, collectors, and scholars interested in his writings. Since Lawrence's interests and experiences were so varied, the encyclopedia discusses everything from the history and politics of the Middle East to biblical archaeology, medieval castle-building, literature, and modern mechanical work. Most of the entries mention works for further reading, and the volume closes with a selected, general bibliography.

Table of Contents:
Preface Introduction Chronology Entries Bibliography

About the Author :
STEPHEN E. TABACHNICK is Professor and Chair of English at the University of Memphis. He specializes in British literature from 1880 to 1940 and is also interested in biography, autobiography, and poetry. His previous books include Fiercer Than Tigers: The Life and Works of Rex Warner (2002), T. E. Lawrence (1978, 1997), Images of Lawrence (1988), Explorations in Doughty's Arabia Deserta (1987), and Charles Doughty (1981).

Review :
First of its kind, Tabachnick's encyclopedia extensively chronicles the life of Lawrence of Arabia….Because of the popularity of the subject and the uniqueness of this work, fans, researchers, and educators would find it to be an incredible resource. Strongly recommended for public and academic libraries. I would say that this Encyclopedia--unlike much of what is written about Lawrence--is both constructive and useful. Professor Tabachnick set himself a difficult challenge and has acquitted himself with honor. [T]his useful encyclopedia may find a place in reference collections beyond those specialising in Middle Eastern Affairs or English Literature. Every Lawrence scholar and enthusiast will want this indispensable encyclopedia on his bookshelf. [C]ertainly [a book] to have for those who find Lawrence and his world of interest….I congratulate Stephen Tabachnick for having captured, in a balanced way, the almost incredibly broad range of subjects associated with Lawrence. [P]rovides chunks of information at the ready, making this a book likely to be well thumbed.