AI-powered
podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
New Books in Middle Eastern Studies
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.
01:13:51
Episode guests
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- Montgomery's passion for Arabic studies, rooted in his diverse academic background, underscores the value of pursuing one's lifelong interests in scholarship.
- The tales of 'Kalila and Dimna' are not only fables but complex ethical narratives that challenge simplistic views of morality and leadership.
Deep dives
Professor James E. Montgomery's Academic Journey
James E. Montgomery, a leading expert in Arabic studies and the Sir Thomas Adams Professor of Arabic at the University of Cambridge, shares his academic journey, which began 42 years ago. Initially studying Latin, Greek, and philosophy, he found his passion in Arabic, ultimately earning a PhD from the University of Oxford. This profound interest inspired his commitment to uncovering classical Arabic literature, culminating in his collaborative translation of 'Kalila and Dimna.' Montgomery emphasizes the joy of pursuing a lifelong passion and the significance of sharing classical Arabic literature with a wider audience.
Get the Snipd
podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered
Discover
highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any
moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share
& Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered
podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover
highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode