The period from about 1100 to 1350 in the Middle East was marked by continued interaction between the local Muslim rulers and two groups of non-Muslim invaders: the Frankish crusaders from Western Europe and the Mongols from northeastern Asia. In deflecting the threat those invaders presented; a major role was played by the Mamluk state which arose in Egypt and Syria in 1250. The Bulletin of the School of Oriental and African Studies has; from 1917 onwards; published several articles pertaining to the history of this period by leading historians of the region; and this volume reprints some of the most important and interesting of them for the convenience of students and scholars.
#7314194 in Books Peter Moran 2015-07-22 2015-07-20Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 9.21 x .55 x 6.14l; .0 #File Name: 0415646286240 pagesBuddhism Observed Travellers Exiles and Tibetan Dharma in Kathmandu
Review
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. Excellent Book; Robber-Baron PricingBy Brad4dYes; this is an insightful and interesting book which gives a good outline (but certainly not the last word) on the complexities of Tibetan exile integration into the Western image and into Nepali society (actually; Nepal is itself a multicultural society with many separate; often inimical groups). The Tibetans have made several contributions to Nepali society; have integrated reasonably well (although; as the author points out; not without problems); and have added another element of diversity. The author writes well enough to expand the audience beyond the academic anthropological community -- it helps us understand the varied pressures and issues of an exile community; and that's good because so many people throughout the world have become exiled; and they might be able to learn from a "successful" exile community.Where I have MAJOR issues with this offering is the outrageous; unreasonable pricing. When this review was written; the price for this book was over $100 -- I recently returned from Kathmandu and saw it consistently sold; brand new; in reputable bookstores for less than $13 (and book prices were generally similar to what you'd find in the US). I support intellectual property rights and fair pay for authors and booksellers; and goodness knows I have contributed greatly to their incomes over the years; but even outdoor gear makers or Wall Street banks won't charge a 1;000% markup for very long. Capitalism; at best; provides more efficient and widespread services that people want; but at worst; rips people off with prices like this. It does not enhance the reputation of or the authors of this book; or anyone associated with the pricing. Sorry for the ranting and raving; but again; I have given enough money to authors and publishers over the years to feel justified.5 of 5 people found the following review helpful. Great insight into the culture of KathmanduBy JenniferThis is one of the most interesting and insightful books I've read about Nepal and Tibetan culture. Moran's shrewd observations of the interactions between Westerners and the Tibetan refugee community reflect the breadth and depth of his experiences in the region. An enlightening and enjoyable reading experience- I recommend this book to academics; as well as those simply interested in Buddhism and the cultures of South Asia.
