Hussein, Taha (1889-1973)

Egyptian thinker, writer, and reformer. His voluminous writings - more than 60 books - on varied and sometimes controversial subjects not only made him the most representative and influential of all Arab intellectuals of his generation but also a leading figure of modern Arab literature or, as he was well-known, the ‘Dean of Arabic Letters’.

His humble origins and blindness at early childhood did not prevent him from achieving a distinguished career in public life. He was made minister of education 1951-52. Several of his writings recognized as masterpieces were translated into other major languages.