Leg over Leg 4-volume set

The reviews consistently praise Leg Over Leg as one of the great works of the Nineteenth Century, with its translation by Humphrey Davis lauded as a tremendous feat and one of the greatest translations of the current decade, comparable to highly esteemed works. Reviewers commend the translator's ambitious and "unhinged" effort in tackling such a challenging and unique text. The book is described as a "scatty encyclopedic epic" that follows a semi-autobiographical character through various adventures and occupations, exploring diverse subjects including human anatomy, Arabic grammar, and English manners. It is appreciated for its ribald, rumbustious, and innovative prose, heroically rendered into English, with later volumes also noted for their amusing perspective on the West.

However, some reviewers found the book, particularly the latter volumes, less compelling than its initial parts. A significant point of contention is the perceived untranslatability of the original text, with some feeling that despite the translator's best efforts, the essence of the work cannot be fully conveyed. The book's sprawling and encyclopedic nature, which includes extensive lists of obscure Arabic words or phrases and a considerable amount of rhyming prose, is noted as potentially making it a "maddening effort." Its repetitious elements and the sheer volume of endnotes are also mentioned as aspects that some readers might find overwhelming or tedious.

Overall, Leg Over Leg emerges as a significant and innovative masterwork, celebrated for its daring translation and unique literary style, despite its inherent complexities. It offers a rich, layered narrative filled with observations on life, language, and culture. This book would strongly appeal to readers who appreciate ambitious and unconventional literary works, particularly those interested in challenging translations, Arabic literature, and historical texts with a satirical or philosophical bent. It is best suited for those willing to engage with a demanding, encyclopedic narrative and who value linguistic innovation and deep cultural exploration, even when encountering elements that might be sprawling or repetitious.