From Edith Wharton to Marvine Howe: Travel Literature Oscillates Between Distorting the Truth and Enhancing the Tourist's Experience

Abstract

This research aims to deconstruct the discourse used in two distinct books on Morocco from different eras, each providing unique perspectives on the country. Edith Wharton's "In Morocco" (1917) offers insights into early 20th-century perceptions, while Marvine Howe's "Morocco: The Islamist Awakening and Other Challenges" (2005) presents a contemporary viewpoint. These texts are thematically analyzed alongside the real-life experiences of American travelers who have either visited Morocco or plan to do so. By understanding the motivations and reasons that lead individuals to choose Morocco as a travel destination, the study explores their expectations, assumptions, and pre-trip desires, shedding light on the lens through which they approach the country. Additionally, it investigates travelers' interpretations of Morocco's rich historical, architectural, cultural, and artistic aspects, uncovering the impact of pre-existing notions on their perceptions. Juxtaposing literature with firsthand traveler accounts, the study aims to discern disparities between anticipated and actual experiences. Post-trip assessments contrast expectations with reality, highlighting the influence of preconceived notions on the overall travel experience. This comprehensive examination contributes to a nuanced understanding of how travel literature shapes perceptions and influences engagement with Morocco as a destination.