The making of a Syrian identity : intellectuals and merchants in nineteenth century Beirut / by Fruma Zachs.

Format:

Book

Author/Creator:

Zachs, Fruma.

Series:

Social, economic, and political studies of the Middle East and Asia ; v. 98.

Social, economic and political studies of the Middle East and Asia ; v. 98

Language:

English

Subjects (All):

Syrians--Lebanon--Beirut.

Syrians.

National characteristics, Syrian.

Beirut (Lebanon)--Intellectual life--19th century.

Beirut (Lebanon).

Beirut (Lebanon)--History--19th century.

Lebanon--Beirut.

Physical Description:

xiv, 277 pages : illustrations, map ; 25 cm.

Place of Publication:

Leiden ; Boston : Brill, 2005.

Summary:

Exploring the origins and development of the Syrian identity, during the 18th and 19th centuries, through the role of Christian Arab intellectuals and merchants, Ottomans and American missionaries, this volume examines its background, stages of evolution, and components. It shows that the contribution of these Christian Arabs, despite their relatively small number, lies in the processes they set in motion, being the first to promote territorial concepts along with a secular interpretation of Arab culture. This Syrian identity constitutes an innovative case study in the broader discipline of proto-national identity and the study of the development of local identities in Middle Eastern countries. It is also a vital basis for research of 20th century Syrian nationalism.

Notes:

Includes bibliographical references (pages [253]-264) and index.

ISBN:

9004141693

OCLC:

57319971