The Legacy of Lawrence of Arabia by Rory Stewart
I was very interested to hear about this film, written and presented by Rory Stewart. I've admired Stewart since I read The Places in Between, and have been always been fascinated by T.E. Lawrence.
Stewart's film examines the history of western intervention in the Middle East and the relevance of lessons learnt by Lawrence in Iraq and Afghanistan today.
Stewart is perfectly qualified to lead the investigation. He's a Harvard professor, adventurer and acclaimed author as well as a former soldier, diplomat and governor of two Iraqi provinces. He draws a balanced picture of Lawrence, avoiding the myths created by the media and the man himself.
Importantly, Stewart reminds us of the events were to haunt Lawrence and tarnish British–Arab relations ever after. The United Kingdom agreed in the Hussein-McMahon Correspondence that it would support Arab independence if they revolted against the Ottoman Empire. The British Government didn't honour their promise. They betrayed the Arabs and arbitrary divided up the land with the French under the Sykes–Picot Agreement.
Stewart sums up, 'Looking at Iraq and Afghanistan today, I believe very strongly that Lawrence's message would not have been do it better, do it more sensitively, but don't do it at all.'
The film is well worth watching — I feel Stewart can add 'great filmmaker' to his enviably long list of achievements. Those in the UK can watch it for a limited period on the BBC's iPlayer.
Posted: 19.01.2010 | Comments: 4 | Add a comment
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I also saw these documentaries, and agree with your views, Jim. It was very interesting to hear from someone qualified to talk on the subject, after spending much of his own lifetime understanding the region, and being actively engaged in trying to address its issues. A welcome change from many of the self professed experts that seem to make it onto our screens. Now more than ever, and in the Middle East perhaps more than anywhere else, there is a need for responsible, informed debate. Here's to more from Mr Stewart.
Can't agree with you Jim. Lawrence was a fantasist and a narcissist!
Rory will be speaking at he National Army Museum in London on the 10 March 2011. Rory will examine the military life of T.E Lawrence drawing parallels with British and American interventions in Iraq and Afghanistan today.
Thanks Jon, sounds great. I'll put it in my diary.