Food is a
necessity for survival, however the concept of food has evolved to entail
socialising and creativity. The purpose of this blog is to explore the role
food plays in literature, specifically focusing on Middle Eastern tales and
cuisine. The ubiquitous turmoil faced by the Middle East and the negative
images enforced in the West result in nothing but the dividing of humanity, and
a focus on otherness with regards to culture and lifestyle. However, through
this blog I will be looking at dishes that unite people within the Middle East
and at food that is shared with the Mediterranean and European cuisines.
Through food we can highlight similarities shared by people of the world and
cast aside the sour taste of war. Questions I have posed to myself include: What
images of food and Middle Eastern women are prevalent in the East and West?
What recipes or dishes are used as unifying tools? What political statements
are made through images or the inclusion of food in literature?
