Sufi Motifs in Ğamāl al-Ġīṭānī's novels al-Zaynī Barakāt and Kitāb al-tağalliyāt Cover Image

Sufijski motivi u romanima Ǧamāla al-Ġīṭānīja Al-Zaynī Barakāt i Kitāb al-taǧalliyāt
Sufi Motifs in Ğamāl al-Ġīṭānī's novels al-Zaynī Barakāt and Kitāb al-tağalliyāt

Author(s): Mirnes Duranović
Subject(s): Studies of Literature, Islam studies, Other Language Literature, Sociology of Religion
Published by: Centar za napredne studije
Keywords: Sufism; Arabic novel; Ğamāl al-Ġīṭānī; symbolism; postmodernism; intertextuality; Ibn ʿArabī; literary reception;

Summary/Abstract: This paper explores the reception of Sufi motifs in the contemporary Arabic novel, with a focus on two novels by Ğamāl al-Ġīṭānī al-Zaynī Barakāt and Kitāb altağalliyāt. In the context of the global popularity of Sufism-inspired novels, as well as the continuity of the Sufi tradition in Arabic literature, the study analyzes specific Sufi symbols, topoi, and terminology in al-Ġīṭānī’s writings. Through a postmodern and phenomenological perspective, it investigates how al-Ġīṭānī, moving away from socialist realism, employs metafiction and intertextuality to transform the Sufi legacy into a critical reflection of contemporary realities. The aim is to highlight the evolution of Sufi elements in Arabic prose and their role in articulating both spiritual and historical narratives.

  • Issue Year: 12/2025
  • Issue No: 2
  • Page Range: 79-98
  • Page Count: 20
  • Language: Bosnian
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