These captivating Coptic Popular Tales from Ottoman Egypt delve into the lives of a Coptic priest, Nuá¹£ayr, and his son Murqus, exploring religious duties, morality, and family dynamics. Unlike mainstream Ottoman literature, they offer a glimpse into Coptic society, discussing fasting, wealth, and societal norms. Through vivid narrative and biblical wisdom, the tales enrich theological studies and historical understanding, shedding light on the complexities of Coptic communal identity. Authored by an unknown Coptic clergyman, they stand as a testament to the intellectual and cultural vitality of eighteenth-century Egypt. From religious doctrines to everyday life, the tales offer a comprehensive view of Coptic history and tradition, serving as both literary treasures and pastoral guidance amidst external influences and internal transformations.
Amr Moneer , Ph.D. (2007), is a former Professor of Medieval History at the College of Sharia and Islamic Studies at Umm al-Qura University and a member of the Faculty of Arts, South Valley University (Egypt). He is an author of numerous books and peer-reviewed articles, focusing on Medieval History, Manuscript Studies, and Myth and History. He has been awarded the Ibn Battuta Prize in 2010 and the Al-Kasso Prize in 2014.
Umar Ryad , Ph.D. (2008), is Professor of Arabic and Islamic Studies and Head of the Department of East Asian and Arabic Studies at the Faculty of Arts - KU Leuven (Belgium). He earned his Bachelor's degree in Islamic Studies in English from the University of Al-Azhar in Cairo, and both his Master's and PhD degrees in Islamic Studies from the University of Leiden. His research focuses on pan-Islamist movements, Christian-Muslim relations, and Orientalism.
Father Bigol Abdallah Zaki is a priest in the Coptic Orthodox Church and an MA researcher at the Department of History of the Institute of Coptic Studies.
All interested in Coptic history, Christian-Muslim relations and cultural history of Ottoman Egypt. TIt particularly engages scholars of literary studies and enthusiasts of folk tales, offering valuable insights into these themes.