Published by Darf in 1985

ISBN: 9781850770268

Tags: Morocco

Format: Hardback

Arthur Leared (1822-1879) was educated at Trinity College, Dublin, and spent much of his life travelling. He journeyed extensively in India, the Middle East and America, and visited Morocco three times between 1872 and 1879. These trips were the basis for Morocco and the Moors (1876), and his later work, A Visit to the Court of Morocco (1879).

Leared provides a complete and colourful picture of 19th century Morocco, offering the reader an intricate look at various towns and cities. Later chapters are devoted to the Moroccan government, military, education, cultural customs and religion.

‘I own to being one of those who prefer a plain narrative, such as is found in the works of older travellers,’ writes the author in his introduction. ‘No one will, I hope, be disappointed at finding an entire absence of smart writing.’

The author’s narration is complimented by fine maps and illustrations throughout, whilst never losing momentum as a valuable historical account.