Part 1: A Victorian, Chapters 5, 6, 7 and 8 Summary and Analysis

In November 1899, Gertrude travels to Jerusalem to study Arabic and enter the Arabic world. Gertrude thrives in her new surroundings and conquers the language which will open up new worlds. Before long, Gertrude launches on the first of many excursions into the desert accompanied only by her cook and two muleteers. Gertrude is joined in Turkey by a required Turkish soldier and she marvels at the ancient ruins of palaces and cities she sees along the journey.

On another trip, Gertrude rides her camel through the rocky terrain of mountains and makes the acquaintance of several people of the region who accept her and admire her courage. Gertrude eventually gains the confidence of Bedouin soldiers who agree to accompany her on her journey over desert sands. Gertrude eventually returns to England but knows...