Summary
"Come, Tell Me How You Live" is a charming and insightful travelogue by Agatha Christie Mallowan, recounting her experiences accompanying her archaeologist husband, Max Mallowan, on digs in Syria and Iraq during the 1930s. The book offers a lighthearted and humorous glimpse into the daily life of an archaeological expedition, far removed from the romanticized notions of adventure and discovery. Christie's narrative captures the essence of the region, its people, and the challenges and joys of living and working in such remote locales.
The book begins with the preparations for the journey, detailing the difficulties of packing and shopping for a hot climate in London. Christie introduces the reader to the main characters, including her husband Max, the taciturn architect Mac, and the invaluable foreman Hamoudi. Their journey takes them across Europe via the Orient Express, and eventually to Beyrout, where they begin their surveying trip to identify promising excavation sites. Christie vividly describes the landscape, the local customs, and the unique characters they encounter along the way.
As the expedition progresses, Christie recounts the challenges of setting up camp, dealing with temperamental vehicles and unreliable cooks, and navigating the complexities of local politics and customs. She shares humorous anecdotes about encounters with French officials, Armenian taxi drivers, and various Arab and Kurdish tribesmen. Despite the hardships, Christie expresses a deep appreciation for the beauty of the Mesopotamian countryside and the warmth and hospitality of its people. She offers insightful observations on the differences between Eastern and Western cultures, and reflects on the timelessness of the desert landscape.
The book also delves into the archaeological work itself, though Christie admits that she is more interested in the everyday life of the people than in the technical details of digging. She describes the process of surveying Tells, examining pottery shards, and identifying promising sites for excavation. She recounts the discovery of important artifacts and the excitement of uncovering clues to the past. Throughout the narrative, Christie's wit and humor shine through, making "Come, Tell Me How You Live" a delightful and informative read. It's a unique blend of travelogue, memoir, and archaeological adventure, offering a personal and engaging perspective on a fascinating period and place.
In the latter part of the book, the focus shifts to the excavations at Chagar Bazar and Tell Brak. Christie recounts the challenges of managing a diverse workforce, dealing with cultural misunderstandings, and coping with the harsh climate. She also reflects on the importance of archaeology in uncovering the stories of ordinary people from the past. The book concludes with the end of the digging season and the return to England, but Christie's memories of Syria and its people remain vivid and enduring.