TEHRAN- “Arthur & George” by English writer Julian Patrick Barnes has recently been published in Persian.

Translated by Farzaneh Qojlu, the book has been published by Now Publications in Tehran. 

Originally published in 2005, "Arthur & George" is set in late-19th century England and revolves around two contrasting characters, Arthur Conan Doyle and George Edalji. 

Arthur Conan Doyle, the famous author known for creating Sherlock Holmes, becomes interested in a controversial case involving George Edalji, a young solicitor of Indian and Scottish descent. Edalji has been wrongfully accused and convicted of mutilating animals and sending threatening letters. As a victim of racial prejudice, Edalji's cries for justice reach Conan Doyle, who sympathizes with his plight and takes it upon himself to investigate the case.

Driven by his strong sense of justice and desire to prove Edalji's innocence, Conan Doyle delves into the intricate details of the case. The novel explores not only the mystery surrounding the crimes but also the complexities of British society at the time, particularly with regards to race and class.

As the story unfolds, Barnes weaves together the parallel lives of these two characters. Despite their stark differences in terms of social status and background, both Conan Doyle and Edalji face their own personal challenges and struggles. Their paths eventually intersect, leading to a pivotal turning point in the narrative.

"Arthur & George" is a thought-provoking and meticulously researched novel that explores themes of identity, justice, and the power of storytelling. It offers a fictionalized account of a real-life incident that ultimately calls into question the nature of truth and the enduring impact of injustice.

SAB/