Critical Muslim 38: Humour

Critical Muslim is a quarterly publication that explores groundbreaking thinking on Islam and what it means to be a Muslim in a rapidly changing, interconnected world. It features reportage, academic analysis, cultural commentary, photography, poetry, and book reviews.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 236 pages
Publication date: 27 May 2021
Publisher: C Hurst & Co Publishers Ltd

The comedy and comedians of Hassan Mahamdallie's youth hold a special place in his heart, evoking laughter and nostalgia. Hussein Abdulsater delves into the Islamic perspective on humor, exploring how it can be both witty and meaningful. Bruce B. Lawrence is captivated by the art of Sufi satire, where humor is used to critique societal norms and challenge religious beliefs. Gilbert Ramsey and Moutaz Alkheder examine the intricate nuances of Jihadi jokes, shedding light on the dark humor that can arise from extremist ideologies. Boyd Tonkin relishes the wordplay in Ahmad Faris al-Shidyaq's "Leg Over Leg," appreciating the cleverness and humor in the Arabic language. Robert Irwin enjoys the timeless charm of old Arab gags, appreciating the wit and wisdom embedded in these comedic tales. Eric Wagner explores Muslim comedy in America, examining how it has evolved and adapted to the diverse cultural landscape. Leyla Jagiella dissects the old theory of biological and psychological humours, challenging the notion that humor is solely influenced by physical or mental traits. Scott Jordan is astonished by the seamless fusion of comedy and news, recognizing how these two mediums have become intertwined in modern society. Hussein Kesvani reflects on his viral tweet, acknowledging the unintended consequences of his humorous message. Shazia Mirza finds joy and laughter in the world of comedy, appreciating its ability to bring people together and uplift spirits. Mevlut Ceylan retells the tales of Nasreddin Hodja, a legendary Turkish humorist known for his witty and clever stories. Shanon Shah is impressed by the Arab political humor, recognizing its power to challenge authority and satirize political systems. Samia Rahman takes a sip from the famous drink of Abu Nawas, a traditional Middle Eastern beverage that is often associated with humor and hospitality. Ziauddin Sardar defends the integrity of put-upon pigeons, highlighting their resilience and ability to find humor in even the most challenging circumstances. Rachel Dwyer hands out Bollywood Comedy Awards, recognizing the contributions of talented comedians in the Indian film industry.

In addition to these captivating features, this issue of Critical Muslim also includes:

Deena Mohamed's superhero Qahera: A thrilling and empowering tale of a young Muslim woman who fights for justice and equality.

Giles Goddard on Christian-Muslim relations: An insightful analysis of the complex relationship between these two faiths, exploring the challenges and opportunities for interfaith dialogue and understanding.

Hoda Yusuf watches the first feature film from Djibouti: A review of "The Sea Between," a captivating drama that offers a unique perspective on the country's history and culture.

Medina Tenour Whiteman's short story: A poignant and thought-provoking tale that explores the themes of identity, belonging, and the search for meaning in a rapidly changing world.

About Critical Muslim: Critical Muslim is a quarterly publication dedicated to showcasing groundbreaking thinking on Islam and what it means to be a Muslim in a rapidly changing, interconnected world. Each edition focuses on a discrete theme, drawing contributions from a wide range of experts and perspectives. The magazine includes reportage, academic analysis, cultural commentary, photography, poetry, and book reviews, providing a comprehensive and diverse exploration of the Islamic world.

Whether you're a scholar, a cultural enthusiast, or simply someone interested in learning more about Islam and its diverse expressions, Critical Muslim is a valuable resource for you. Join us in our mission to promote understanding, tolerance, and dialogue between different faiths and cultures.

Dimension: 216 x 138 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781787384873