The Queen of the Desert and Her Letters from Baghdad: A Gertrude Bell Documentary Review

I went out into the desert because I wished to find the unknown, and I found not only places no European had visited before but also profound truths about myself and about the great, misunderstood land through which I travelled.

Amurath to Amurath, Gertrude Bell, 1911

Rediscovering Gertrude Bell, the Forgotten Queen of the Desert

Gertrude Margaret Lowthian Bell CBE, often overshadowed by her contemporary T.E. Lawrence (Lawrence of Arabia), was one of the most influential yet under-recognized figures of the early 20th century. Known as the “Queen of the Desert,” her extraordinary life is brilliantly chronicled in the documentary Letters from Baghdad. The film provides an intimate, compelling look into Bell’s nuanced character, her historical significance, and the personal tragedies that shaped her profound legacy.

In addition to the documentary, Bell’s life was also dramatized in the 2015 biographical film Queen of the Desert, directed by Werner Herzog and starring Nicole Kidman as Gertrude Bell. While the film attempts to capture the emotional scope of Bell’s personal journey—particularly her romantic heartbreak and inner conflict—it received mixed reviews, with many critics noting its limited exploration of her political influence and intellectual depth. Nonetheless, it serves as a gateway for many viewers who are discovering Bell’s story for the first time.

When contrasted with Letters from Baghdad, which relies on Bell’s own words and archival material, the two films offer vastly different but complimentary portrayals of this remarkable woman.

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The Making of Modern Iraq: Churchill, Faisal, and the Role of Gertrude Bell

To truly understand Gertrude Bell’s importance, one must appreciate the historical landscape of the Middle East during the early 1900s. Following World War I, Britain, seeking geopolitical control and stability, became instrumental in shaping modern Iraq from the remnants of the Ottoman Empire. Central to this political drama were figures such as Winston Churchill, King Faisal of Iraq, and the famed British military strategist T.E. Lawrence.

Bell played a pivotal advisory role to Churchill, whose policies dramatically reshaped Middle Eastern politics. Her acute insights into the cultural, tribal, and religious dynamics of the region were indispensable. Notably, it was Bell who significantly influenced Churchill’s decision to install Faisal as the king of the newly formed nation of Iraq. Unlike her male counterparts, she cultivated profound respect among the Bedouin tribes, earning their trust through deep cultural understanding and empathetic engagement rather than colonial coercion.

Gertrude Bell’s Remarkable Journeys: The Chronology of a Trailblazing Life

To fully grasp Gertrude Bell’s remarkable influence and lasting legacy, one must journey chronologically through her extensive travels, which significantly shaped her diplomatic wisdom, archaeological expertise, and audacious spirit. Her adventures reveal an evolution marked by increasing ambition, bravery, and profound cultural sensitivity, forging a life extraordinary in both depth and scope.

Early Ventures and Formative Experiences (1892-1900)

Bell’s appetite for travel and adventure began shortly after she graduated from Oxford University with first-class honours in Modern History—the first woman ever to achieve this remarkable feat. In 1892, at only 24, she travelled to Persia (modern-day Iran) to visit her uncle, Sir Frank Lascelles, then the British ambassador in Tehran. Here, she experienced her first true immersion into Middle Eastern culture, quickly developing a fascination and deep respect for its intricate traditions, poetic languages, and historical complexity.

It was in Persia she first discovered a talent for languages and diplomacy, diving into learning Farsi with remarkable fluency. She wrote compelling letters home, brimming with excitement and curiosity, signalling the beginning of her lifelong journey of cultural engagement and mutual respect—a far cry from the imperialist disdain that typified many of her contemporaries.

Archaeological Pioneering and Desert Adventures (1900-1909)

The turn of the century saw Bell plunging deeper into uncharted terrains. Between 1900 and 1909, she undertook extensive travels across Syria, Palestine, and Anatolia, meticulously mapping previously unexplored archaeological sites and delving into local histories and folklore.

Her archaeological ambitions soon grew bolder, with Bell leading excavations and expeditions that required profound bravery. One memorable incident during a journey to the remote ruins of Ukhaidir in the deserts of Iraq illustrates her courage. Despite warnings of hostile tribes, Bell resolutely pressed on, forging trusting relationships with local sheikhs. Her calm demeanour and respectful diplomacy transformed potential hostility into friendships, allowing her unprecedented access and safety. Her writings from this period notably include The Desert and the Sown (1907), widely admired for its vivid, empathetic portrayal of the people and landscapes she encountered.

She was instrumental in establishing the Baghdad Museum, tirelessly advocating for the preservation of Iraq’s antiquities, understanding deeply how cultural pride would underpin national identity.

Mapping Arabia: Boldness and Mastery of the Desert (1910-1914)

By 1910, Gertrude Bell had become an established expert on Middle Eastern affairs, undertaking her most daring explorations yet. She travelled across vast expanses of Arabia, covering thousands of miles often alone, with only a small caravan of loyal Bedouin guides. Her groundbreaking expedition through the perilous Nejd desert region (central Arabia) in 1913 particularly stands out. Few Westerners had traversed this remote territory, and never had a woman ventured into such dangerous and uncharted lands alone.

A memorable anecdote from this journey reveals her quick thinking and audacity. Upon being confronted by a particularly suspicious local leader, Bell swiftly diffused tension by fluently reciting traditional Bedouin poetry, astonishing and delighting her hosts. Her mastery of language and custom allowed her to navigate potentially deadly encounters, earning the respect and protection of desert tribes who began affectionately calling her “Khatun,” meaning noble lady.

Wartime Intelligence and Diplomacy: Cairo and Basra (1915-1917)

During the upheavals of World War I, Bell’s unmatched knowledge positioned her prominently within British intelligence circles. In 1915, she was recruited by British military intelligence to provide crucial insights into the Middle East from Cairo. She swiftly established herself as an invaluable resource, offering precise analysis of tribal alliances and political tensions to key British figures, including Winston Churchill.

Shortly afterward, she moved to Basra, in Iraq, assuming an even more prominent diplomatic role. She tirelessly documented the intricate web of tribal dynamics, sectarian divisions, and local politics. One revealing episode from this period was her unwavering insistence to British officials that true regional stability could never be achieved through force alone. Her letters firmly argued for nuanced diplomacy rooted in cultural understanding, eventually influencing the British approach significantly.

The Baghdad Years: Shaping Modern Iraq (1917-1926)

Bell’s deep understanding and connections across tribal and political lines made her indispensable when British forces occupied Baghdad in 1917. She swiftly transitioned from advisor to policymaker, directly influencing the foundation and governance of modern Iraq. Bell notably authored “The Review of the Civil Administration of Mesopotamia” (1920), a key policy document that remains historically important as an insightful and balanced analysis of the region.

One of her greatest diplomatic triumphs was advocating for Faisal bin Hussein as the ideal leader for Iraq, culminating in Faisal’s coronation as King of Iraq in 1921. Her profound grasp of local allegiances and power structures meant her recommendations carried immense weight. She was instrumental in establishing the Baghdad Museum, tirelessly advocating for the preservation of Iraq’s antiquities, understanding deeply how cultural pride would underpin national identity.

Legacy and Final Years: Endurance and Loss (1926)

Despite her extraordinary public achievements, Bell’s personal burdens grew heavy. Her letters from the 1920s show increasing fatigue and loneliness, yet her professional resolve remained steadfast. Her grief over the early death of her great love, Henry Cadogan, decades earlier, continued to shadow her life; letters reveal that she never recovered fully from losing the only man she felt deeply connected to. This tragedy haunted her, fuelling a relentless, if melancholy, drive toward accomplishment and excellence.

In July 1926, Gertrude Bell died tragically at her home in Baghdad. She had accomplished extraordinary feats as an explorer, archaeologist, diplomat, and policymaker, leaving behind a modern nation significantly shaped by her vision and wisdom. Despite this, her death was quiet and largely unnoticed, contrasting starkly with the immense influence she had wielded in life.

Insights From the Chronology of Her Life

Gertrude Bell’s chronological journey of travel and achievement portrays a steady, courageous progression from curious young scholar to influential diplomat and nation-builder. Her legacy demonstrates how relentless bravery, profound respect for cultural diversity, and personal resilience can profoundly shape history. Bell’s adventurous spirit, scholarly intellect, diplomatic genius, and empathetic heart set her apart, compelling us to rediscover and celebrate her rightful place as one of history’s great women.

Breaking Boundaries: Gertrude Bell’s Feminist Legacy

At a time when women faced significant social and institutional barriers, Bell’s achievements were extraordinary. Her entry into the predominantly male fields of diplomacy, archaeology, and exploration was groundbreaking. Through her extensive travels and detailed documentation of archaeological sites, Bell demonstrated remarkable courage and intellectual curiosity, laying the groundwork for future female explorers and diplomats.

However, Bell’s legacy, particularly in comparison to her male contemporaries, underscores the gender biases inherent in historical narrative construction. Lawrence of Arabia remains universally celebrated, receiving international acclaim for his diplomatic and military exploits, whereas Bell’s arguably greater diplomatic influence and lasting impact have largely remained in the historical background. This disparity is not merely a coincidence but a reflection of societal norms that continue to overlook female contributions.

Her mastery of language and custom allowed her to navigate potentially deadly encounters, earning the respect and protection of desert tribes who began affectionately calling her “Khatun,” meaning noble lady.

Gertrude Bell vs. Lawrence of Arabia: Diplomacy Over Drama

The comparison between Bell and Lawrence of Arabia is crucial for understanding her overlooked historical position. Both figures embraced Middle Eastern cultures, but their methods and legacies differed markedly. Lawrence, romanticized through literature and cinema, became synonymous with adventurous heroism. Conversely, Bell’s quieter, diplomatic approach lacked cinematic drama but was arguably more impactful.

Lawrence thrived in the realm of guerrilla warfare, harnessing Bedouin revolt against Ottoman rule, yet his impact on long-term political outcomes remained limited. Bell’s engagement was far more pragmatic. Her expertise led directly to political formation, the structuring of government institutions, and substantial influence over regional policies. The fact that Lawrence’s legacy eclipses hers highlights deeper societal tendencies toward glamorizing conflict-based heroics over diplomatic prowess and steady governance.

Immersion and Respect: Bell’s Unique Approach to the Middle East

Bell’s distinctive approach to her role in the Middle East is among the most fascinating elements of her story. Unlike many British imperialists, she advocated for immersion into local societies, firmly believing in the importance of cultural and linguistic fluency. Her approach was marked by mutual respect rather than domination, enabling her to earn genuine trust and authority among local tribes and political figures.

She meticulously studied Arabic and the intricacies of Bedouin tribal systems, providing insights that were absent from traditional imperialist perspectives. Bell’s deep understanding informed Britain’s Middle Eastern policy, promoting strategies that—while controversial and complex—reflected genuine comprehension of the region’s realities rather than imposed external solutions.

Love and Loss: The Heartbreak That Defined Gertrude Bell’s Destiny

One of the most poignant dimensions of Gertrude Bell’s life, as sensitively portrayed in Letters from Baghdad, is her profound and enduring loneliness, shaped by the heartbreak she endured through her life. Bell was deeply unlucky in love; first, the youthful romance with Henry Cadogan ended tragically with his untimely death, and later, her deep affection for Richard Doughty-Wylie—an already married man—resulted in a love that could never be fulfilled. The documentary subtly emphasizes the depth of her attachment to Richard, portraying how the impossibility of this relationship affected her profoundly, perhaps even more so than her earlier loss of Henry.

This profound loneliness became an intrinsic part of Bell’s emotional landscape. Rather than being defeated by these emotional blows, Bell channelled the pain of solitude into her tireless drive for exploration, political influence, and cultural understanding. The emotional void that love had left in her life compelled her to seek meaning through achievements, deep cultural connections, and intellectual pursuits, shaping her into one of history’s most extraordinary women.

There is, perhaps, a poetic beauty in Bell’s isolation. Her solitude, painful as it was, became the quiet driving force behind her remarkable legacy. In a sense, Gertrude Bell’s greatness was not achieved in spite of her loneliness, but profoundly because of it—a fact that resonates deeply and personally, creating a bond that makes her legacy ever more powerful and enduring.

Further Reading: Discovering Gertrude Bell in Her Own Words

While the documentary Letters from Baghdad provides a captivating visual and narrative account of Gertrude Bell’s remarkable life, those who wish to delve even deeper into her story can do so through her personal writings. Bell was an exceptionally prolific diarist, letter-writer, and author, documenting her travels, political insights, and personal experiences in meticulous detail. Her writings offer invaluable first-hand accounts that not only chronicle her adventures and diplomatic efforts but also illuminate her complex inner life. Below are several recommended works, authored by Bell herself, providing an intimate connection with this extraordinary woman:

1. Persian Pictures (1894)

Gertrude Bell’s first major published work, Persian Pictures, chronicles her earliest travels in Persia (modern-day Iran). This collection of essays reveals a young woman’s curiosity and emerging fascination with a culture vastly different from her own. With evocative prose and keen observations, Bell immerses readers in the landscapes, people, and customs she encountered, offering glimpses of the sensitive, reflective explorer she was becoming.

“It is hard to believe that a country so endowed with beauty and so rich in poetic feeling should be inhabited by a people who fail to see and appreciate these things. But the Persians understand and enjoy their land; they have adorned it with exquisite gardens; they have sung its praises in verses which breathe the spirit of its loveliness.”
— Persian Pictures, Gertrude Bell, 1894.

2. The Desert and the Sown (1907)

In this highly regarded travel narrative, Bell recounts her extensive journeys across Syria, Palestine, and Mesopotamia. Rich with vivid descriptions and cultural insights, The Desert and the Sown is particularly notable for Bell’s empathetic portrayal of local populations, challenging Western stereotypes and prejudices. It’s a powerful testament to her ability to deeply understand and appreciate the societies she explored.

“I have gone back often to the East, and each time I find it more alluring, more mysterious, more infinitely complex. I have walked and ridden through deserts that seemed unchanging and eternal, yet each has shown me a new face, a new beauty, and a new truth.”
— The Desert and the Sown, Gertrude Bell, 1907.

3. Amurath to Amurath (1911)

Bell’s Amurath to Amurath details her bold expedition through the Ottoman Empire shortly before World War I. Her narratives, laced with historical context and sharp political observations, vividly portray the shifting power dynamics that would soon reshape the Middle East. Bell’s engaging style blends adventure with insightful political commentary, underscoring her growing role as a political and cultural authority on the region.

“I went out into the desert because I wished to find the unknown, and I found not only places no European had visited before but also profound truths about myself and about the great, misunderstood land through which I travelled.”
— Amurath to Amurath, Gertrude Bell, 1911.

4. The Gertrude Bell Archive (Newcastle University Digital Collection)

An extraordinary resource available online, the Gertrude Bell Archive at Newcastle University offers comprehensive access to Bell’s diaries, letters, photographs, and personal papers. Researchers, history enthusiasts, and general readers alike can browse through digitized documents that vividly depict Bell’s remarkable personal and professional life, from her early adventures to her instrumental diplomatic work in shaping modern Iraq.

• Access the Gertrude Bell Archive online here

These writings offer readers the chance to intimately explore Bell’s personal voice, gaining insights that extend beyond the documentary. They vividly illustrate how Gertrude Bell’s life was not merely shaped by history but also profoundly influenced the history she lived through, offering us enduring lessons about courage, cultural understanding, and resilience.

Engaging directly with Bell’s words provides a richer appreciation of the woman who, through tragedy, adventure, and brilliance, became known as the Queen of the Desert.

Restoring Gertrude Bell’s Rightful Place in History

The documentary Letters from Baghdad offers an essential corrective to the incomplete historical portrait of Gertrude Bell, vividly illustrating her extraordinary life and contributions. It portrays Bell not merely as a historical figure, but as a complex, emotional, and dynamic individual whose personal tragedies and profound empathy directly shaped her influential diplomatic career.

Bell’s legacy as a feminist icon, explorer, and diplomat invites viewers and historians alike to reconsider the narratives of history, which too frequently marginalize women’s contributions. This remarkable documentary compellingly argues for her rightful place alongside—and arguably ahead of—her more famous male counterparts.

By highlighting the emotional depth and historical significance of Bell’s life, Letters from Baghdad enriches our understanding of this exceptional figure. It not only recovers her from historical neglect but celebrates the powerful way personal tragedy and public duty can intertwine, creating a legacy of resilience, influence, and profound humanity.

References for Further Exploration

• Bell, Gertrude. The Desert and the Sown. London: Heinemann, 1907.
• Howell, Georgina. Gertrude Bell: Queen of the Desert, Shaper of Nations. Farrar, Straus and Giroux, 2007.
• Wallach, Janet, Desert Queen: The Extraordinary Life of Gertrude Bell: Adventurer, Adviser to Kings, Ally of Lawrence of Arabia. Anchor Books, 1999.
• Lukitz, Liora. A Quest in the Middle East: Gertrude Bell and the Making of Modern Iraq. I.B. Tauris, 2006.
• Rich, Paul J. Creating the Arabian Gulf: The British Raj and the Invasions of the Gulf. Lexington Books, 2009.

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