One Thousand and One Arabian Nights: Aladdin, Ali Baba, Sinbad and the Tales of Scheherazade

The 'Arabian Nights' is a collection of folk tales from Arabic and Indian oral traditions, originally told by Scheherazade to save herself from execution. The tales have become popular worldwide and have been added to the original structure by translators and collaborators from many European and Eastern sources. This new collection features stories that survive from the original, such as 'The Merchant and the Genie', 'The Fisherman and the Genie', 'The Porter and the Three Ladies', and 'The Three Apples'.

Format: Hardback
Length: 480 pages
Publication date: 21 October 2020
Publisher: Flame Tree Publishing

The captivating 'Thousand and One Nights' tales have transcended borders and entered the folklore of the world, but their roots can be traced back to the rich oral traditions of Arabic and India during the early Middle Ages. What sets these tales apart is the unwavering determination of the storyteller, Scheherazade, who weaves a new tale every night, risking her life to save herself from execution. Among the beloved characters that have become integral to the Arabian Nights are Aladdin, Ali Baba, and Sinbad the sailor, who were later added to the narrative but remain intricately woven within the original structure. These additions were made by translators and collaborators from various European and Eastern cultures, but it was Richard Burton's edition that truly brought these popular folk tales to the attention of a Victorian-era readership eager to explore new cultures.

Burton's edition, renowned for its meticulous scholarship and translation, played a pivotal role in popularizing these tales. It introduced a wider audience to the rich tapestry of Arabian Nights, captivating readers with its intricate storytelling and captivating characters. This new collection, curated from the original stories, showcases the timeless allure of 'Thousand and One Nights.'

Within these pages, readers will encounter tales that have survived the test of time, including "The Merchant and the Genie," "The Fisherman and the Genie," "The Porter and the Three Ladies," and "The Three Apples." These stories, filled with adventure, romance, and magic, continue to captivate audiences, reminding us of the power of storytelling to transport us to different worlds and evoke emotions that remain with us long after we close the book.

As we delve into the pages of this collection, we are transported back to a time when the Arabian Nights were a source of endless fascination and wonder. These tales, passed down through generations, have endured the test of time and continue to resonate with people across cultures and generations. They remind us of the importance of storytelling, the power of imagination, and the enduring legacy of the Arabian Nights in shaping our cultural heritage.

In conclusion, the 'Thousand and One Nights' tales have left an indelible mark on the world's folklore, and their origins in the Arabic and Indian oral traditions of the early Middle Ages are a testament to the rich cultural heritage of our world. Richard Burton's edition played a crucial role in bringing these tales to the attention of a wider audience, and this new collection serves as a testament to the timeless appeal of these captivating stories. Whether you are a seasoned reader or a newcomer to the world of Arabian Nights, this collection is sure to captivate and inspire you with its rich narrative and unforgettable characters.

Weight: 750g
Dimension: 162 x 240 x 42 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781839642388