Onder De Wilde Stammen Op De Grenzen Van Afghanistan: De Aarde En Haar Volken, 1917

A historical account written in the early 20th century. The book chronicles the author's sixteen years of experience as a missionary doctor in the remote regions of North-West India, particularly along the tumultuous borders of Afghanistan. It offers insights into the lives, customs, and challenges faced by the primitive tribes living in those areas, highlighting not only Pennell's medical work but also his interactions and relationships with the local people. The opening of the narrative sets the stage for Pennell's journey, providing a rich context for his experiences. He reflects on his long interaction with the Afghan and Pathan tribes, emphasizing the complexities of their society, characterized by both hospitality and violence. Through a series of anecdotes, he illustrates the socio-political dynamics at play, such as blood feuds, the importance of honor, and the precarious role of a foreign doctor in these communities. The beginning teases out the tension between life's fragility and the author's commitment to healing, while also hinting at the cultural intricacies that shape the identity of these tribes.