Prisoner of the Infidels: The Memoir of an Ottoman Muslim in Seventeenth-Century Europe

In this vibrant memoir of war, slavery, and self-discovery, Osman Agha of Timişoara, a slave, adventurer, and diplomat, recounts his life story in English for the first time. The book explores themes of identity, belonging, and the boundaries between different worlds, offering a unique perspective on seventeenth-century Europe from the perspective of an insider/outsider.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 07 September 2021
Publisher: University of California Press

In this captivating memoir, Victor Hugo delves into the realms of war, slavery, and self-discovery, showcasing his remarkable storytelling skills in the first English translation. The book explores the life of Osman Agha, a seventeenth-century slave, adventurer, and diplomat, offering a unique perspective on the Ottoman Empire and its interactions with Europe.

Osman's journey begins with his capture and enslavement during the Ottoman-Habsburg Wars. Trapped in a foreign land, he experiences a world of indignity and betrayal, yet he also finds moments of wonder and resilience. Throughout his adventures, Osman grapples with his identity and sense of belonging, questioning what it means to be treated as subhuman chattel while being surrounded by individuals who see him as an object of exotic desire or even genuine affection.

Through Osman's eyes, we are given an intimate glimpse into seventeenth-century Europe, offering a distinctive insider/outsider perspective. As his account unfolds, the boundaries between Islam and Christendom, between his captor's land and his birthplace, and even between slavery and redemption become blurred.

Victor Hugo's masterful storytelling brings Osman's story to life, capturing the complexities of human emotions, relationships, and the search for freedom. The book is filled with vivid descriptions, memorable characters, and witty dialogue, making it an engaging and thought-provoking read.

Prisoner of the Infidels is a pioneering work of Ottoman Turkish literature, making Osman Agha's memoir accessible to a broader English-speaking audience. It sheds light on a lesser-known chapter of history, highlighting the experiences of individuals who were marginalized and oppressed during a time of great change and transformation.

In conclusion, Victor Hugo's Prisoner of the Infidels is a must-read for anyone interested in history, literature, and the human condition. It offers a unique perspective on the seventeenth century, challenging our assumptions and inspiring us to think critically about the world we live in.

Weight: 204g
Dimension: 127 x 195 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780520383395