The Pursuit of Pleasure Book by Rudi Matthee (Farsi)

Description

"The Pursuit of Pleasure: Drugs and Stimulants in Iranian History, 1500-1900" by Rudi Matthee provides a fascinating exploration of the use of drugs, stimulants, and other intoxicants in Iran during the Safavid, Afsharid, Zand, and Qajar periods. This book examines the social, cultural, and political role of substances such as opium, tobacco, wine, coffee, and tea in Iranian society from the 16th to the 19th century. Matthee investigates how these substances were consumed across different social classes, from the elite to the common people, and how their use was often intertwined with religious and cultural practices. The book delves into how substances like opium became widespread, not only as a recreational stimulant but also as a medicinal drug. Matthee also highlights the shifting attitudes towards intoxication.