Political Commitment in Arabic Literature

This course will explore the history of and debates surrounding political consciousness and commitment in modern Arabic literature from the mid-20th century to the present. Through close readings of mainly novels, novellas, and short stories, we will ask how, why, and with what consequences Arab authors have challenged political realities with literary expression. We will trace the diverse strategies by which authors articulated their criticisms and envisioned justice grounded in their political context. Topics and themes will include socialist realism, resistance literature, alienation, self-criticism, and responses to colonialism and censorship. No knowledge of Arabic required.