Read more
Seven Pillars of Wisdom by T.E. Lawrence follows a British officer in the Arab Revolt of 1916, offering a panorama of colorful characters, striking landscapes, desperate battle and nimble strategy. Celebrated as one of the finest of all autobiographies, these are the vividly recounted experiences of the self-effacing man known worldwide as Lawrence of Arabia.
About the author
Thomas Edward Lawrence (1888-1935) was a military officer and author. At the beginning of the First World War he joined the British Army and was eventually sent to Arabia where his exploits, including several combat engagements, led to both citations for leadership and the enemy putting a price on his head. Lawrence’s memoir of this time, Seven Pillars of Wisdom enhanced his widespread recognition as a hero-- Lawrence of Arabia. Averse to fame and even recognition, Lawrence was nevertheless widely admired and is regarded as perhaps the exemplary British soldier and gentleman-adventurer to this day.
Summary
Thomas Edward Lawrence finds himself enmeshed in intrigue and open warfare in Arabia during the First World War. Adapting and embracing the culture of the Arabs, his story becomes one of both personal contemplation and stunning resourcefulness on the battlefield.
The author looks back on his time spent as a British officer working with Arab forces in their fight against the German-allied Ottoman Turks. Planning and participating in numerous attacks as well as acts of often ingenious sabotage, Lawrence describes scenes of wartime action with gripping immediacy that clearly relays the savagery and confusion of combat. His engagement with Arab soldiers and championing of their cause endeared him to those he served with and afforded him the opportunity to write sharp character portrayals of several of his most notable comrades. In addition, there are rich asides on military strategy and guerrilla warfare, desert geography and history, as well as a consistent probing introspection as the author finds himself transformed by all he has experienced. Seven Pillars of Wisdom is a singular work that is at once a sweeping adventure story, a valuable primary historical source with modern relevance, and the deeply felt memoir of an extraordinary man.
With an eye-catching new cover, and professionally typeset manuscript, this edition of Seven Pillars of Wisdom is both modern and readable.
