Introduction
"Begone, Demons" is an unique written by the late former president of Iraq, Saddam Hussein, during his time in hiding in 2003, quickly prior to his capture by American forces. The book was very first published in 2005 in Arabic as "Get out, You Damned!" and has given that been translated into multiple languages. It is a piece of fiction that looks into the realms of politics, romance, and tribal feuds, set against the backdrop of the ancient Babylonian city of Ouja and reflecting on distinguished historic figures such as Nebuchadnezzar and the Assyrian king, Sennacherib.
Plot and Themes
"Begone, Demons" informs the story of Ezekiel, a relatively rich and influential Babylonian farmer who is likewise the leader of his people. Ezekiel is a devout believer in the power of the ancient Egyptian gods, especially the god of fertility, Enlil. The novel starts with Ezekiel undergoing a spiritual vision of Enlil commanding him to combat against the evil forces of the Assyrians, who wished to dominate the Babylonian lands.
The unique generally revolves around the struggle in between great and evil forces within the human world-- the Assyrians being illustrated as the wicked aggressors, while the Babylonians under the guidance of the kindhearted Enlil, represent the forces of righteousness and excellent. Blood, valor, and sacrifice infuse the story as the tribes clash in legendary fights.
Historical occasions are intertwined with the fiction, offering a backdrop of historical precision. The novel assesses the guideline of Nebuchadnezzar II, the aggressive project he orchestrated versus Assyria, and the occasions that resulted in the Babylonian Empire's rise to power. A parallel story unfolds in the story: a love triangle in between Ezekiel, the heroine Nibila, and the shrewd antagonist and traitor, Issa, who betrays the Babylonians in the hope of acquiring Nibila's affections.
Throughout the story, Hussein looks into themes of betrayal, loyalty, and trust, delving into the Iraqi psyche, clan commitments, and the essence of political battle.
Author's Perspective and Political Views
Saddam Hussein's voice is evident in the unique, as he interposes his political ideas and gives an insight into his ideas. Babillon, the ancient city where the story is set, can be viewed as a metaphor for the president's Iraq. Hussein's political views are translated through the concept character Ezekiel, who functions as the author's mouth piece.
The novel supplies glances into the reasoning behind Saddam's leadership, such as his fondness for violence, his preoccupation with his tradition and his belief in the requirement for strong borders versus foreign dangers. Throughout the unique, it is apparent that the author is acutely familiar with the historical context in which he is composing and he utilizes it as a way of alerting against foreign intervention.
Reception and Significance
While "Begone, Demons" has been mostly dismissed as a poor piece of literature, it remains a significant historical artifact, providing insights into the mind of the polarizing leader in his last years. The book was applauded by some for its representation of ancient Babylonian history and the themes of national pride, the struggle against foreign enemies, and the worth of commitment and trust.
Critics, however, have kept in mind that the novel's pace is slow, the characterization and dialogue unconvincing, and the historic accuracy is spoiled by anachronisms. In spite of these criticisms, the novel provides an important understanding of Saddam Hussein as an author, a politician, and a human being, and functions as an intriguing file of his program's final days.
Begone, Demons
Posted shortly before the invasion of Iraq, this novel tells the story of an Arab leader who defeats his enemies and builds a renewed nation. The story is thought to be a reflection of Saddam Hussein's vision for himself and Iraq.
Author: Saddam Hussein
Saddam Hussein's biography & quotes: born in a poor family in 1937, he rose to power as Iraq's president, ruling with iron fist until his capture & execution.
More about Saddam Hussein