Abdelwahab Meddeb was a prominent Tunisian writer, poet, and intellectual, born on January 23, 1946, in Tunis. He was known for his contributions to literature and his exploration of themes related to Islam, identity, and cultural dialogue. Meddeb's works often reflected his deep engagement with both Arabic and French literary traditions. In addition to his literary achievements, Meddeb was also a respected academic and a vocal advocate for secularism and pluralism in the Arab world. He taught at various institutions, including Paris VIII University, and published numerous essays and books, such as "The Malady of Islam," which examined the complexities of Islamic thought and its relationship with modernity.