

Ibn al-Muqaffaʿs "Kalīlah and Dimnah: Fables of Virtue and Vice"
Dec 2, 2024
In this engaging conversation, James E. Montgomery, a prominent Arabic scholar and co-translator of 'Kalīlah and Dimnah,' shares insights into the timeless fables' exploration of virtue and vice. He highlights his journey into Arabic studies and the challenges of translating classic texts for modern readers. The discussion spans Ibn al-Muqaffaʿ's historical significance, the perils of distraction illustrated in the fables, and their relevance in today's political landscape. Montgomery also emphasizes the cultural importance of narratives like falconry in preserving heritage.
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Transcript
Episode notes
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Intro
00:00 • 3min
The Journey to Arabic
02:31 • 4min
Ibn al-Muqaffaʿ: Bridging Heritage and Power
06:45 • 13min
The Perils of Distraction
19:32 • 9min
Navigating Translation Challenges
28:47 • 18min
Kalīlah and Dimnah: Ancient Wisdom in Modern Politics
46:40 • 22min
The Revival of Falconry and Cultural Narratives in Modern Literature
01:08:51 • 3min