A fascinating account of Persia in the early 20th century, including the Greater Persia and its immediate neighbours, including Afghanistan, Balochistan, Azerbaijan and Khorasan. One of the few books written by a Persian in English at the time, this concise yet comprehensive book contains valuable information on the different ethnic and religious groups in Persia (e.g., Shia Islam, the Parsis, Babaism and Nestorianism) as well as translations of Persian literature.
From the Preface
Being native and personally acquainted with many parts of the country, he [the author] has availed himself of the observations of the greater number of modern travelers, both to correct his own opinions and to supply additional facts, in describing: Persia – Its history. Political character of the Persian Empire. The King, his Court and his Palace. Civil and Criminal Law. Account of the provinces of Persia. The antiquities of Persia. Its people, home life, customs, and matrimony; the Mohammedan religion, its Bible and its Priesthood; a discourse on the Arabs and their prophet; also Kurds, Babis, and their Bible; a full description of the Magi, or Parsee, religion and the Wise Men of the East. Literature of Persia. Mystical interpretations of the Koran and metaphysical conception of God according to the Sufis Philosophy; Textil and Contemporary Ars and Industries; a description of the Nestorians and the medical mission in the East, including Afghanistan and Beloochistan.
