Begums, Thugs, and Englishmen by Fanny Parkes

“Begums, Thugs, and Englishmen: The Journals of Fanny Parkes” is a travelogue and memoir written by Fanny Parkes, a British woman who lived in India during the 19th century. The book is a collection of Parkes’ personal journals and letters, which document her experiences living in India as a woman during a time of great social and cultural change.

Through her vivid and insightful writing, Parkes provides a unique perspective on life in colonial India, including the interactions between British colonizers and the local Indian population. She writes about her travels across the country, her encounters with Indian royalty and nobility, and her experiences living in the midst of the British colonial administration.

The book also touches on themes of gender, race, and identity, as Parkes navigates the complex social hierarchies of colonial India and struggles to find her place in this foreign and sometimes hostile environment.

Overall, “Begums, Thugs, and Englishmen” is an important and fascinating historical document that offers a valuable glimpse into the world of colonial India. Parkes’ writing is engaging and informative, making this book a must-read for anyone interested in the history and culture of this period.