A critical study of modern Arabic fiction which attempts to show that far from being social, orthodox or merely anecdotal, modern Arabic fiction is in fact significant and radical in the world context of modern fiction.;The first part consists of an introduction which presents a critique of the literary scene in the last two decades with the emphasis on short fiction. This is followed by a critical study of the short story specifically exploring and analyzing the political and social dimensions of the time. The second part is composed of a selection of short stories translated by the author with the intention of making the text available to the reader.;Mohammed Shaheen is author of "George Meredith: A Reappraisal of the Novels".

In "Howards End," Forster remarks that the Imperialist "hopes to inherit the earth" and with the strong temptation he has to acclaim it "as a superyeoman, who carries his country's virtue overseas." He then adds: "But the Imperialist is not what he thinks or seems." He is a destroyer. He prepares the way for cosmopolitanism, and though his ambitions may be fulfilled the earth that he inherits will be grey." This simple notion is masterly expressed in "A Passage to India," which provides a rich diversity of historical contexts and implies political imperatives urging us to rethink the complex relationship between East and West not as simple confrontation but rather as deeply rooted in cultural differences far beyond the realm of imperialist sensibility. With the support of material by Forster published here for the first time, this volume explores the realm of Forster's politics and imperialism.

This fully revised second edition of The Modern Arabic Short Story is a unique anthology offering English translations of previously unavailable Arabic texts. Each story has been beautifully translated and carefully collected in this unique updated edition. The Modern Arabic Short Story provides a valuable introduction and overview of this classical form of storytelling.

This fully revised second edition of The Modern Arabic Short Story is a unique anthology offering English translations of previously unavailable Arabic texts. Each story has been beautifully translated and carefully collected in this unique updated edition. The Modern Arabic Short Story provides a valuable introduction and overview of this classical form of storytelling.