Essay Questions

How does Isabelle Eberhardt use the ‘Desert’ to appeal the sense of touch to the reader?

The author of this story is a nomad and she spends most of her time in the desert. She has a camel, which she uses to perform most of her duties. In the arid region, there are burly winds, grime, and sand. The heat from the sun during the day is very hot and this is where the imagery of touch and feeling points. The heat from the sun is brutal to the desert dwellers including Isabelle Eberhardt. The scorching sun makes her feel very thirsty and weak. Therefore, the author is on point when she uses the 'desert' to appeal the sense of touch to the reader. From the imagery, it is precise that the reader is able to conceptualize and visualize the reality on the ground where the author lives.

Is Isabelle Eberhardt a Muslim rebel? Support your argument.

Ironically, Isabelle is a strong Muslim believer despite the fact that she does not let religion control her life, unlike many other believers. In most scenarios, Muslim believers do not have the audacity to question the Quran. However, Isabelle is critical of what she reads from the Quran and how she applies it in real life. She does not allow the traditions of Islam to utter her sensations. She has discovered that men have used the Quran for many years to control females in her society. In this regard, Isabel is not a Muslim rebel because she reads the Quran and interprets it in her own way to suit her lifestyle.

How does the irony of travel manifest itself in the “The Nomad: The Diaries of Isabelle Eberhardt”?

The author of this story is a woman who is supposed to be confined within the cultural dictations of Islam. However, it is Ironic that travel provides an opportunity for her to live outside the confines and restrictions of the Muslim religion. As she travels from one location to the other, rules change because in some regions there no strict Muslim restrictions. For instance, the way of life in Europe is not similar to Egypt, Libya, the Middle East, and other Muslim states. The irony is that as people move, they liberate themselves from the confines of religion. Having religious freedom to interpret the Quran on your own does not imply that you are a rebel.