Raphael

Raphael Christian Cormack is a British academic and author specializing in the Arab world and the esoteric. He holds a PhD in Egyptian Theatre from the University of Edinburgh and has been a visiting researcher at Columbia University. Cormack currently serves as an Assistant Professor of Arabic at Durham University. His scholarly contributions extend to essays on Arab culture published in prominent literary journals. He has also curated anthologies of Middle Eastern literature.

Cormack's published works delve into both popular culture and mystical traditions. He has explored the vibrant scene of 1920s Egypt through its female stars and investigated figures associated with the occult, such as Dr. Dahesh and Tahra-Bey. His research often bridges academic scholarship with an interest in less conventional historical and cultural phenomena, including the intersection of spirituality and modern life.

Raphael Cormack possesses a strong academic foundation in Middle Eastern studies and theatre. He earned his doctorate from the University of Edinburgh, focusing his research on Egyptian theatre. Further enriching his academic profile, he undertook a period as a visiting researcher at Columbia University. His scholarly pursuits are reflected in his role as an Assistant Professor of Arabic at Durham University, where he contributes to the study of Arabic language and culture. Cormack's academic credentials underscore his deep engagement with the Arab world and its diverse cultural expressions.

Beyond his academic work on Arab culture, Cormack has demonstrated a significant interest in esoteric and occult subjects. His book, 'Holy Men of the Electromagnetic Age,' specifically examines the lives and influence of figures like Dr. Dahesh and the Armenian fakir Tahra-Bey. This work highlights his engagement with the history of the occult and unconventional spiritual movements. Cormack's exploration of these topics suggests a broader scholarly interest in the intersection of spirituality, belief systems, and historical narratives, particularly concerning figures who operated outside mainstream religious or intellectual circles.

Raphael Cormack has established himself as a writer and editor with a focus on Arab culture and its various facets. He has contributed essays on Arab culture to respected publications such as the London Review of Books, Prospect, and the Times Literary Supplement, showcasing his ability to engage with complex cultural topics for a wider audience. Furthermore, Cormack has taken on editorial roles, compiling two anthologies, 'The Book of Cairo' and 'The Book of Khartoum.' These collections likely offer insights into the literary and cultural landscapes of these significant cities.