The Egyptian Dream
Egyptian National Identity and Uprisings
Explores the struggle to define Egyptian national identity post-independence
The story of Egyptian identity from the beginning of the twentieth century is one constructed by statesmen, intellectuals and Islamic thinkers. This book argues that the current fragmentation of Egypt's political scene reflects the increasing social division in a country where 'the people' are demanding a redefinition of their national identity. Scrutinising the society behind the uprisings that began in 2011 and their diverse economic, ideological and sectorial demands, it also looks at the desperate state's attempt to construct a unified Egyptian identity – an attempt which has resulted in further splitting Egyptian society.
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PrefaceIntroduction: Weak state – weak society1. Mother Egypt: the gift of the Nile2. Ibn al-balad: the true son of Egypt3. Misri Effendi - The squeezed middle-class4. The ‘As if’ State5. Tools of mass persuasion6. Language of division or unity?7. The intellectuals’ identity crisis8. When Egyptians revoltConclusionReferences
This text is alone in its class, given its rich analysis of multiple facets of identity in Egypt. With a primary focus on intellectuals and revolutionary tendencies in Egyptian culture, Mellor explores the cognitive and cultural underpinnings of the recent uprisings. Her book is mandatory reading for any scholar, activist or policy maker who wonders why the heroic events of Tahrir Square did not produce more freedom, dignity and democracy. Instead Mellor illustrates the emergence of new forms of patriotism and "Egyptian-ness" as citizens wait for the Egyptian Dream to materialise.
