Behind the Bastards: T.E. Lawrence – The Complex Legacy of a Desert Rebel

Release Date: November 19, 2024
Hosts: A and B
Produced by: Cool Zone Media and iHeartPodcasts

I. Introduction to the Episode

In this episode of Behind the Bastards, Hosts A and B delve deep into the life and legacy of T.E. Lawrence, famously known as Lawrence of Arabia. The discussion navigates through his pivotal role in World War I, his strategic brilliance in insurgent warfare, and the moral ambiguities that surround his actions and personal experiences.

II. T.E. Lawrence and the Battle of Aqaba

A initiates the conversation by highlighting the Battle of Aqaba, contrasting its historical accounts with its portrayal in popular media. He notes, "The movie just shows Lawrence and his guys riding in this glorious Rohirrim cavalry charge and they just smash the Turks. That's not at all what happens." [07:59] The actual battle, described as an impressive feat of insurgent warfare, involved Lawrence leading a small force that grew to about a thousand by recruiting local tribes. Instead of a dramatic charge, the battle was characterized by strategic ambushes and minimal casualties on Lawrence's side, with the Turks eventually being overwhelmed.

III. Sykes-Picot Agreement and Its Implications

The hosts transition to discussing the Sykes-Picot Agreement, an infamous pact between Britain and France to divide the Ottoman Empire's territories in the Middle East. A provides a critical analysis, stating, "Sykes Picot is kind of evidence of the ways in which the British and French are talking about carving up the Middle East." [15:42] This agreement laid the groundwork for modern Middle Eastern borders, fostering long-term instability and resentment among the local populations.

B adds context by describing the backgrounds of key figures involved, such as Sir Mark Sykes, emphasizing his role in orchestrating the division of Arab lands for European interests. The hosts criticize the imperialistic motives behind the agreement, highlighting its lasting negative impact on regional geopolitics.

IV. Lawrence's Tug-of-War with Morality and Strategy

A explores Lawrence's internal conflict regarding the promises made to the Arab tribes versus the imperialistic plans of his superiors. He quotes Lawrence's own words from Seven Pillars of Wisdom: "Hardly one day in Arabia passed without a physical ache to increase the corroding sense of my accessory deceitfulness towards the Arabs and the legitimate fatigue of responsible command." [44:42] This reflects Lawrence's awareness of the duplicity inherent in his role—balancing his support for Arab independence with the geopolitical agendas of the British Empire.

The hosts discuss Lawrence's strategic initiatives, such as his recon campaigns and the innovative concept of "scientific shattering" to destroy Ottoman infrastructure without complete demolition, thereby prolonging the enemy's efforts to rebuild ([36:53]). A praises Lawrence's ability to think outside conventional military doctrines, likening his insurgent tactics to naval warfare in their mobility and unpredictability.

V. The Controversy Surrounding Lawrence's Account of Torture and Rape

A significant portion of the episode delves into the contentious topic of whether Lawrence was gang-raped, as he claims in his writings. A recounts Lawrence's harrowing experience during his captivity: "He describes lengthily how he was beaten and tortured and then gang raped by the Governor and his guards in Seven Pillars." [60:11] This account has sparked debate among historians and biographers.

While some, like biographer James Barr, argue that Lawrence fabricated the story to discredit Arab militants ([61:26]), others, including John E. Mack, accept the authenticity of the account and its profound psychological impact on Lawrence ([63:12]). A navigates these conflicting perspectives, emphasizing the psychological toll such trauma would have on anyone, especially someone in Lawrence's tumultuous position.

VI. Conclusion: Evaluating Lawrence's Legacy

As the episode draws to a close, A and B reflect on Lawrence's multifaceted legacy. On one hand, he is lauded for his strategic genius and efforts to support Arab independence. On the other, his actions and the moral compromises he made under imperial directives paint a more complex and, at times, morally ambiguous picture.

A concludes, "This man is so fucked up," [65:03] encapsulating the intricate blend of brilliance and brutality that defines Lawrence's historical persona. The hosts acknowledge that while Lawrence's contributions to insurgent warfare and his role in shaping the Middle East are undeniable, the ethical and personal costs of his actions and experiences render his legacy profoundly complicated.

Notable Quotes:

• A: "The movie just shows Lawrence and his guys riding in this glorious Rohirrim cavalry charge and they just smash the Turks. That's not at all what happens." [07:59]

• A: "Sykes Picot is kind of evidence of the ways in which the British and French are talking about carving up the Middle East." [15:42]

• A: "Hardly one day in Arabia passed without a physical ache to increase the corroding sense of my accessory deceitfulness towards the Arabs and the legitimate fatigue of responsible command." [44:42]

• A: "This man is so fucked up." [65:03]

This episode of Behind the Bastards offers a nuanced exploration of T.E. Lawrence's life, balancing his strategic accomplishments with the moral dilemmas and personal traumas that shaped him. For listeners seeking a deep dive into the complexities of historical figures deemed as "bastards," this episode provides a compelling analysis that challenges simplistic interpretations.