Loss in Modern Arabic Literature

This course examines the literary expression of and response to various forms of loss, including military defeat, diaspora, and prison confinement in Arabic poems, short stories, and novellas from the 20th century through the post-Arab Spring. We explore how texts reimagine social and political geographies through diverse poetic and narrative techniques to enrich our understanding of the region and of central debates in its literary tradition. Though the topics may seem quite grim, we will find that many of the readings render forms of loss into aesthetics of beauty or empowerment. No knowledge of Arabic necessary.