Bernard Lewis
Biography
Bernard Lewis (1916–2018) was a prominent British-American historian specializing in oriental studies, particularly the history of Islam and the Middle East. Educated at the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) at the University of London, he later held professorships at SOAS and Princeton University. Lewis was renowned for his extensive linguistic abilities, mastering numerous Middle Eastern languages, which informed his meticulous scholarship. His work often explored the historical interactions and clashes between Islamic and Western civilizations, the decline of the Ottoman Empire, and the origins of modern Middle Eastern conflicts. A prolific author, Lewis's interpretations and analyses, though influential, sometimes sparked controversy, especially concerning topics like the Armenian Genocide and the 'clash of civilizations'. He was a significant intellectual figure, impacting both academic discourse and foreign policy circles.
Selected Thoughts
«"For the West, the modern history of the Middle East has been a history of problems and interventions; for the Middle East, it has been a history of subjection and humiliation."»
«"What makes Islamic fundamentalism so dangerous is that it is a theocratic political movement with global ambitions."»
«"History is not a burden on the memory but an illumination of the soul."»
Writing Style
Bernard Lewis's writing style is characterized by its clarity, scholarly rigor, and analytical depth. He meticulously researched his topics, often drawing on primary sources in multiple languages. His prose was accessible yet academic, making complex historical narratives understandable to a broad intellectual audience. While his work was deeply historical, he frequently engaged with contemporary political issues, offering historical context to current events, often with a conservative perspective that sometimes generated debate.