THE LAND OF MIDIAN

"The Land of Midian" by Richard F. Burton is a detailed account of the author's explorations in the region historically known as Midian, located in the northwestern part of the Arabian Peninsula. The work is divided into two main parts, each chronicling different phases of Burton's journey. Part I, "The March Through Madyan Proper (North Midian)," begins with Burton's departure from Trieste and his initial travels from El-muwaylah to the "White Mountain" and ‘Aynúah. This section highlights Burton's groundbreaking exploration to Magháir Shu'ayb and his investigations into the presence of precious metals in the region, drawing on historical papyri and accounts from medieval Arab geographers. Burton's work at Magháir Shu'Ayb and subsequent excursions to Makná are detailed, including his observations of the local Magáni or Maknáwis people. The narrative continues with a cruise from Makná to El-‘Akabah and a subsequent journey back to El-Muwaylah, during which Burton narrowly escapes a shipwreck. Part II, "The March Through Central and Eastern Midian," documents Burton's work around El-Muwaylah and his travels through East Midian to the Hismá. He explores the unknown lands south of the Hismá, including the ruins of Shuwák and Shaghab, and continues to Zibá, where he examines the ruins of El-Khandakí' and Umm Ámil, as well as a turquoise mine. Burton's journey takes him to the Shárr Mountain and further south to El-Wijh, where he notes the quarantine practices and the Hutaym tribe. His exploration of the southern sulphur-hill and cruise to El-Haurá provide insights into the Baliyy tribe and the volcanic centers of northwestern Arabia. The narrative concludes with Burton's final march to the inland fort and the ruins of gold mines at Umm El-Karáyát and Umm El-Haráb, followed by a description of the plain Badais and the Wady Hamz, where he examines classical ruins and the mine of "Marwah." The book concludes with a summary of the southern journey and appendices that provide additional context and information.