Palace Of Desire by Naguib Mahfouz

Description

“Palace of Desire” is the second novel in the Cairo Trilogy by Egyptian author Naguib Mahfouz. Originally written in Arabic, the novel was first published in 1957. The Cairo Trilogy consists of three novels: “Palace Walk,” “Palace of Desire,” and “Sugar Street.”

Set in Cairo during the first half of the 20th century, “Palace of Desire” continues the multi-generational saga of the Al Jawad family. The story revolves around the life of the patriarch, Al-Sayyid Ahmad Abd al-Jawad, and his family members, exploring themes of love, politics, social change, and the clash between tradition and modernity.

The novel particularly focuses on the next generation of the Al Jawad family, with Al-Sayyid Ahmad’s sons taking center stage. It delves into their personal and romantic lives, as well as their struggles with the changing political and social landscape of Egypt. The title “Palace of Desire” refers to the conflict between personal desires and societal expectations that the characters grapple with throughout the narrative.

Naguib Mahfouz was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1988, and the Cairo Trilogy stands as one of his most significant literary achievements. The trilogy provides a rich and nuanced portrayal of Egyptian society during a time of significant cultural and political transformation.