The Arabian Nights: Tales from a Thousand and One Nights (Modern Library Classics) brings to life a collection of stories that have captivated readers for centuries. Richard Burton’s translation, chosen by Bennett A. Cerf for the 1932 Modern Library edition, offers a rich tapestry of tales full of mischief, valor, ribaldry, and romance. At the heart of these narratives is Shahrazad, who saved her life by telling stories to her husband, the king, each night. She withheld the endings of her stories, ensuring she would be listened to for one more day—a process that lasted a thousand and one nights. This volume includes beloved classics such as “Alaeddin; or, the Wonderful Lamp,” “Sinbad the Seaman and Sinbad the Landsman,” and “Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves.” Burton’s extensive and acclaimed explanatory notes provide valuable context to these enduring narratives. With 1049 pages of enchanting storytelling, this edition preserves the magic of Shahrazad’s spell, making it a must-read for any lover of literature.
