Soccer In The Middle East

This collection explores the multifaceted connections between soccer and society in the Middle East. It examines the social significance of soccer and its importance to individuals and the collectivity. Shaped and influenced by such forces as religion, colonialism, nation-building and globalization, the game is a source of both conflict and peace.Soccer is a vital part of the Middle East's cultural and political fabric. The chapters in this volume include an essay on the leading role played by fans and players during the Arab Spring revolts, anthropological studies of women players in Iraqi Kurdistan, obstacles faced and overcome, reports centered on the politics of Turkish fans, a survey of the political affiliations of Lebanese clubs, studies of pre-1948 Palestinian sport, and portrayals of Arab athletes in the Israeli media during the second Intifada and how they reflect shifting political realities and attitudes.The themes of this book are addressed through individual accounts,...