Research Article
Story-Narrative Relation: A Narratological Study of Distance in Sūrah YūSuf
Salman Alade Yunus*,
Sekinat Olanike Arimiyau,
Muhammed Olatunde Yaqub
Issue:
Volume 9, Issue 1, March 2024
Pages:
1-7
Received:
26 January 2024
Accepted:
20 February 2024
Published:
17 April 2024
Abstract: This study examined narrative distance in Sūrah Yūsuf – surah (chapter) 12th of the Quran, which contains a well told biography of Prophet Yusuf (Biblical Joseph). It analyzed this narrative nonfiction to determine how fully and directly the story information is presented to the reader. The study applied Gerard Genette’s linguistic subcategory of narrative distance – with supportive insights from other structuralist narratological critics - to this analysis to aid in appreciating how distance enhances the quality and quantity of story information presented to the reader. The analysis focused on the narration of both events and speech as prescribed in Genette’s approach to determine the range of distance between the narrative text with its narrator-agent and the story with its characters as well as between the story and the readers. The study revealed through this qualitative analysis that though the text – unlike the modern novel - less vividly presents the story’s setting, plot, character and conflict as well as the characters’ speech due to its non-storytelling mission of giving moral lessons to worshipers and enabling them to concentrate on that specific detail, it serves as a precursor which anticipated the emergence of the dramatic modern novel. Future researches about the mode of presentation of this narrative, especially its focalization, will shed more light on how awareness of the relationship between the story and this narrative text may enhance readers’ comprehension and appreciation of the text as well as their feeling of involvement in the story events.
Abstract: This study examined narrative distance in Sūrah Yūsuf – surah (chapter) 12th of the Quran, which contains a well told biography of Prophet Yusuf (Biblical Joseph). It analyzed this narrative nonfiction to determine how fully and directly the story information is presented to the reader. The study applied Gerard Genette’s linguistic subcategory of n...
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Research Article
Call for Peace and National Cohesion: Reading from Selected Arabic Literary Texts of Nigerian Authorship
Tajudeen Yusuf*
Issue:
Volume 9, Issue 1, March 2024
Pages:
8-14
Received:
23 August 2024
Accepted:
15 November 2024
Published:
29 November 2024
Abstract: Since ancient times, literature has served as a mirror reflecting society and its progress, often engaging with themes of morality, compassion, unity, and peaceful coexistence within human communities. Literature, through both poetry and prose, communicates ethical values that encourage and educate for peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, and harmonious social relationships. This study utilizes a descriptive approach to examine the contributions of Nigerian authors in Arabic literature to the promotion of national integration, harmony, and peaceful coexistence among Nigerians of diverse ethnicities and constituencies. By selecting specific literary texts, especially poetry, from the works of three prominent Nigerian literary figures, this paper investigates how Arabic literature of Nigerian authorship has fostered ideals of unity, harmony, and peaceful cohabitation within Nigeria’s highly heterogeneous socio-political landscape. Findings from the study reveal that numerous Nigerian Arabic literary scholars have significantly contributed to the advocacy for national integration and peace. Their literary productions emphasize the importance of unity among Nigerians, despite the multitude of languages, rich cultural diversity, and varied practices across the country. These literary works serve as powerful tools for promoting tolerance, understanding, and unity, highlighting literature’s essential role in reinforcing shared national values, fostering patriotism, and enhancing collective consciousness in Nigeria’s complex and multicultural society.
Abstract: Since ancient times, literature has served as a mirror reflecting society and its progress, often engaging with themes of morality, compassion, unity, and peaceful coexistence within human communities. Literature, through both poetry and prose, communicates ethical values that encourage and educate for peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, and harm...
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