Unveiling the Poetics of Disguise: A Literary Exploration of Identity and Transformation in the Modern Middle East

In the vibrant literary landscape of the modern Middle East, disguise emerges as a captivating literary device, offering writers a potent means to explore the complexities of identity, transformation, and social critique. The Poetics of Disguise: With Four Short Plays and Monologue delves deep into this intriguing literary trope, providing a comprehensive analysis of its significance and diverse manifestations in contemporary Middle Eastern literature.

Alfred Farag and Egyptian Theater: The Poetics of Disguise, With Four Short Plays and a Monologue (Modern Middle East Literature in Translation Series)

by Dina A. Amin

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3026 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	384 pages
Paperback	:	114 pages
Item Weight	:	2.08 ounces
Dimensions	:	5.31 x 0.26 x 8.46 inches

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The Significance of Disguise in Middle Eastern Literature

Disguise has been a prevalent narrative strategy in Middle Eastern literature for centuries, but it has gained particular prominence in the modern era. The tumultuous political and social upheavals of the 20th century, coupled with the rise of transnationalism and globalization, have created a fertile ground for writers to explore the malleability and fluidity of identity.

In the modern Middle East, disguise offers a creative outlet for writers to address issues of personal and collective identity, often in response to oppressive regimes, cultural norms, and societal expectations. By donning different guises, characters can transgress boundaries, challenge social hierarchies, and ultimately reshape their own narratives.

Analysis of Disguise in Four Short Plays and Monologue

The Poetics of Disguise features four captivating short plays and a monologue that showcase the diverse ways in which disguise is employed in contemporary Middle Eastern literature. These works provide a rich tapestry of perspectives on identity formation, gender roles, and the search for authenticity in a rapidly changing world.

* "The Mask" by Hassan Blasim: This poignant play follows a young woman who disguises herself as a male student to gain access to education in a society that restricts female literacy. Through her disguise, she subverts gender norms and confronts the oppressive nature of her society. * "The Guest" by Sondos Al-Atrash: A group of Syrian refugees seeking asylum in Europe find themselves caught in a web of deception and mistrust. Disguise becomes an essential tool for survival and self-preservation as they navigate the unfamiliar and unforgiving terrain of their new surroundings. * "The Mime" by Hassan El Geretly: This thought-provoking monologue explores the psychological and emotional toll of living in a society where censorship and repression prevail. The mime character represents the struggle to find one's voice and express oneself authentically amidst social constraints. * "Leave-Taking" by Hala Tawfeek: A moving play centered around an elderly woman who prepares to leave her home and embark on a journey into the unknown. Her act of leaving becomes a metaphor for the transformative power of disguise, as she sheds the weight of her past and embraces the uncertainty of the future.

The Poetic Dimensions of Disguise

Beyond its narrative function, disguise in The Poetics of Disguise also serves as a poetic device, enhancing the aesthetic and symbolic dimensions of the texts. Writers employ disguise to create moments of heightened tension, ambiguity, and suspense, keeping the reader captivated throughout.

The use of disguise often creates a sense of irony and paradox, as characters struggle to reconcile their true selves with their constructed identities. This tension allows writers to explore the complexities of human nature and the fluidity of the self.

The Poetics of Disguise: With Four Short Plays and Monologue is an illuminating and thought-provoking exploration of the rich literary tradition surrounding disguise in contemporary Middle Eastern literature. Through in-depth analysis of selected works, the book sheds light on the significance of disguise as a narrative device, a tool for social critique, and a poetic expression.

By delving into the transformative power of disguise, The Poetics of Disguise not only offers a compelling literary read but also provides valuable insights into the complex social and cultural landscapes of the modern Middle East. It is a must-read for anyone interested in contemporary literature, Middle Eastern studies, or the intersection of identity, society, and the written word.

Alfred Farag and Egyptian Theater: The Poetics of Disguise, With Four Short Plays and a Monologue (Modern Middle East Literature in Translation Series)

by Dina A. Amin

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3026 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	384 pages
Paperback	:	114 pages
Item Weight	:	2.08 ounces
Dimensions	:	5.31 x 0.26 x 8.46 inches

FREE