Camel

Issued by "Al-Majma' Al-Thaqafi - Kalima" for the Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage, the first edition of the book "The Camel: The Natural and Cultural History" by researcher "Robert Irwin." It is part of a scientific series in English titled: "Animal Series," translated and published by the publishing house as part of its cultural project. This book was first printed in its English version in 2010 in London. The book addresses the camel from two fascinating perspectives: the natural history of the camel, highlighting its different breeds, places of existence, reproduction, and natural life cycle; and the cultural history of the camel, shedding light on the most important beliefs, myths, and legends in which the animal played a main role in their formation and spread. It also highlights the camel's interconnection with the literary and artistic productions of the most famous writers and artists, among others, and its integration into the folk heritage of different societies. The author, in his study, explores the reason why many cultures are fascinated by the camel, including regions where the camel was not a native animal. He investigates common curious questions about the camel and what the ordinary reader is interested in knowing about the camel and the desert environment as a whole. The author has made every effort to make the book easy and smooth, not overly scientific or controversial among zoologists regarding the differing characteristics of the camel. The author believes that ambiguity and confusion in research persisted until recently in the scientific study of the camel. His engaging study seeks answers to questions such as: What does it mean to be a camel? How does the camel live? Does it think about tomorrow? What is the nature of the camel's life in a place primarily defined and shaped by its scents? How would life be if the camel spends most of the year not engaging in reproduction, then spends part of the winter season obsessively and violently? What kind of sexual life does the camel have, where smelling urine plays a significant role? How can the father be completely indifferent to his offspring? Why do camels like to spend time with other camels? What makes them respond to songs and music? What is in the camel that makes it easily submissive to human commands? How much does the camel retain from its experiences in memory? Does the camel realize that it will die one day? And if so, how does it perceive death? Do camels wonder about the meaning of being human? The author reviews how the camel has sparked human curiosity and aspirations over centuries, making it more than just a desert animal. This book is considered the first survey discussing the role of the camel in society and history across the world. It includes more than one hundred colored images that connect information with visuals for the reader's maximum benefit.