The Shaving of Shagpat. By George Meredith FULL Audiobook
"The Shaving of Shagpat: An Arabian Entertainment" is a whimsical and fantastical novel written by English author George Meredith. First published in 1856, it weaves together elements of fantasy, romance, and allegory, drawing inspiration from the tales of the Arabian Nights. The novel's rich imagination, exotic settings, and playful storytelling make it a unique contribution to the world of fantasy literature.
The story revolves around two central characters:
1. Shibli Bagarag: A Persian barber with an adventurous spirit.
2. Noorna: An enchantress who possesses magical powers.
Their quest begins when they are tasked with an unusual mission: to shave the tyrant Shagpat, whose magical hair holds his city in thrall. As Shibli embarks on this journey, he acquires a magical sword and encounters a host of fantastical creatures, including a talking hawk and several genies.
The novel unfolds in a series of interconnected stories within the main narrative. Along the way, Shibli explores an enchanting subterranean kingdom, enters an otherworldly palace, and faces the challenge of shaving the slumbering king. His actions lead to the release of two princesses and the subjugation of an Afrite, all while navigating a world filled with magic, wit, and unexpected twists.
Themes and Style:
- Oriental Romance: Meredith masterfully adopts the style of the Arabian Nights, infusing the novel with the flavor of ancient Persia and the mystical East. The lush descriptions, poetic asides, and intricate storytelling evoke the richness of oriental tales.
- Allegory: Beneath the surface, "The Shaving of Shagpat" carries allegorical elements. Some interpretations suggest that Shagpat's magical hair symbolizes oppressive political power, and Shibli's quest represents the struggle for freedom and enlightenment.
- Imagination and Fantasy: Meredith's imagination knows no bounds. He conjures up magical landscapes, mythical creatures, and whimsical scenarios, creating a delightful blend of fantasy and humor.
- Literary Allusions: The novel playfully references other literary works, weaving them into its fabric. It pays homage to the tradition of storytelling while adding its own unique twists.
Reception:
- Despite positive reviews, the novel initially sold poorly, and the first edition ended up in remainder stalls.
- George Eliot praised Meredith's work, calling it "a work of genius" and highlighting its originality and inspiration drawn from Arabian fictions.
- Meredith never returned to the fantasy genre but went on to become a successful writer of modern romantic novels.
In summary, "The Shaving of Shagpat" invites readers into a magical realm where imagination reigns supreme, and the ordinary becomes extraordinary. Its whimsy, wit, and allegorical layers continue to captivate those who venture into its pages.
More: Shibli Bagarag, Noorna, Shagpat
magic sword, talking hawk, genies
oriental romance, Arabian Nights, fantasy literature
allegory, politics, George Eliot
imagination, richness of fantasy, curious work
00:00:00 The Thwackings
00:41:00 And This Is the Story of Bhanavar the Beautiful
03:07:58 The Betrothal
03:27:12 And This Is the Punishment of Shahpesh, the Persian, on Khipil, the Builder
03:39:44 The Genie Karaz
03:53:49 The Well of Paravid
04:01:23 The Horse Garraveen
04:11:54 The Talking Hawk
04:24:07 Goorelka of Oolb
04:35:07 The Lily of the Enchanted Sea
04:48:25 And This Is the Story of Noorna Bin Noorka, the Genie Karaz, and the Princess of Oolb
05:23:09 The Wiles of Rabesqurat
06:00:40 The Palace of Aklis
06:15:55 The Sons of Aklis
06:36:54 The Sword of Aklis
06:44:32 Koorookh
06:57:26 The Veiled Figure
07:06:14 The Bosom of Noorna
07:14:48 The Revival
07:21:35 The Plot
07:36:51 The Dish of Pomegranate Grain
08:21:04 The Burning of the Identical
08:41:15 The Flashes of the Blade
08:59:36 Conclusion