Arthur sets out on a difficult journey from Constantinople to Mosul in 1872, traveling nearly 900 miles across Mesopotamia. As he makes his way through this ancient and complex region, he becomes increasingly aware of the religious and cultural diversity that characterizes the land. The disparities between the various peoples, even those from the same area, leave him intrigued and somewhat bewildered. Despite the overwhelming differences, Arthur finds a sense of familiarity in the landscape, recognizing elements from his studies of ancient civilizations, such as irrigation systems and reed houses. These symbols of the past seem to echo through the land, providing Arthur with a sense of timelessness, as if history itself is still alive in the earth beneath his feet.

During his stop at Jacob’s Inn near the Tigris, Arthur is teased by a friend about the poorly prepared meal that is served, providing a moment of humor in an otherwise serious journey. This interaction highlights some of the cultural quirks and contrasts Arthur encounters throughout his travels, making him reflect on his experiences and the misunderstandings that can arise from cultural differences. The term “Orient” often comes up in his thoughts, leaving him confused and searching for its meaning in the context of his travels. This leads him to think about Napoleon’s historic campaigns in the Middle East, which were heavily influenced by Enlightenment ideals. The ideals of the West, as embodied by Napoleon, seem to clash with the reality of the region, offering a glimpse into the complex relationship between Eastern and Western perspectives.

As Arthur continues his journey along the Tigris, he finds himself drawn to the river’s unpredictable nature, especially when compared to the Nile. The Tigris, with its mix of beauty and danger, serves as a reminder of the impermanence of both life and history. Arthur cannot help but be struck by the contrast between the images of ancient prosperity he has studied and the poverty he sees around him. These stark realities paint a picture of a land that has seen great civilizations rise and fall, a place where history is both tangible and elusive. The river itself becomes a symbol of this duality, its currents carrying not only the physical water but also the memories and tragedies of countless generations that have lived and died along its banks.

Upon his arrival in Mosul, Arthur attends a banquet hosted by the local pasha, where cultural misunderstandings begin to surface. Arthur’s failure to meet the pasha’s expectations creates tension, as he realizes that his actions and words are often misinterpreted due to the stark cultural divide between himself and his hosts. This interaction underscores the challenges Arthur faces as a foreign archaeologist in a region with complex political and social dynamics. His Levantine friend subtly warns him that the pasha is suspicious of his intentions in the area, adding another layer of difficulty to Arthur’s already challenging mission. Despite these growing doubts, Arthur remains focused on his ultimate goal of uncovering and preserving the region’s rich antiquities.

As Arthur continues his journey, the excitement of his archaeological pursuits is reignited by the sight of the legendary ruins of Nineveh. Yet, he is not without reservations, and the local guide’s warnings about Zêrav—a village with a dark reputation for devil-worshippers—raise concerns. Arthur’s resolve to push forward only strengthens, setting the stage for potential conflict as he ventures deeper into a land full of both ancient history and modern-day dangers. This determination to continue, despite the foreboding atmosphere, marks the beginning of a more complex and dangerous phase of his journey, one that will test his perseverance and judgment in the face of both historical discovery and personal risk.