Lady Gregory
Arabi and his household
"Arabi and His Household" by Lady Gregory is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book explores the life and character of Ahmed Arabi, an Egyptian leader known for his role in the nationalist movement against British rule in Egypt during the 1880s. Through her narrative, Lady Gregory seeks to humanize Arabi and his family, shedding light on their experiences during a turbulent period of Egyptian history and providing insights into the complexities of colonial rule. In this work, Lady Gregory narrates her personal encounters with Arabi and the dynamics of his household, including his wife and mother, illustrating their humanity amid political strife. She recounts Arabi's rise from a simple officer to a prominent figure in Egyptian politics, highlighting his genuine intentions and moral character in contrast to the negative portrayals propagated by British officials and media. The story touches upon themes of loyalty, family, and national identity, offering a glimpse into the personal challenges faced by Arabi and his loved ones as they navigated the sociopolitical turmoil of their time. Overall, the narrative serves as both a tribute to Arabi's legacy and a critique of the colonial perspectives that sought to vilify him.