Imagine packing a bag in 1884 and setting off into the heartland of the Ottoman Empire. That's what French writer Edmond Dutemple did. 'En Turquie d'Asie' is his record of that journey through Anatolia, the vast Asian part of Turkey. He wasn't following a tour group. He was traveling by horse, wagon, and whatever means he could find, moving from bustling towns into remote, mountainous regions most Europeans never saw.

The Story

There isn't a single plot in the traditional sense. Instead, think of it as a series of brilliant, connected episodes. Dutemple acts as our guide, describing the stark beauty of the landscape, the challenges of the road, and, most importantly, the people he meets. He shares meals, conversations, and sometimes frustrations with local officials, farmers, and nomadic tribes. He observes daily life, architecture, and customs with a sharp eye. The 'story' is the journey itself—his attempt to piece together a realistic picture of Anatolia at a time when it was often misunderstood or romanticized from afar.

Why You Should Read It

What makes this book special is Dutemple's voice. He's not a distant academic; he's right there in the dust and heat. His observations feel immediate. You get the sense of a world in quiet transition. He notes the enduring traditions, but also spots the early signs of change and the tensions within the empire. It's travel writing as time travel. You're not just learning about 19th-century Anatolia; through his detailed descriptions of a market, a chance conversation, or a night spent in a village, you feel like you're peeking over his shoulder. It’s insightful without being pretentious.

Final Verdict

Perfect for readers who love immersive travelogues, armchair historians, and anyone curious about Turkey beyond the postcards. If you enjoyed books like Patrick Leigh Fermor's walk across Europe or Rebecca West's 'Black Lamb and Grey Falcon,' you'll appreciate this earlier, ground-level view of a crossroads of civilization. It's a fascinating, firsthand account that brings a pivotal place and moment vividly to life.