Molla Nasreddin: The Making of a Modern Trickster, 1906-1911

In 1906, a group of artists and intellectuals reinterpreted the tales of Nasreddin to construct a progressive anti-colonial discourse with a strong emphasis on social, political, and religious reform. The periodical Moll? Nasreddin, which had full-page lithographic cartoons in color, reached tens of thousands of people across the Muslim world, impacting the thinking of a generation.

Format: Hardback
Length: 398 pages
Publication date: 30 September 2022
Publisher: Edinburgh University Press

In 1906, a group of artists and intellectuals embarked on a transformative endeavor by reinterpreting the tales of the legendary Middle Eastern trickster, Nasreddin. Their mission was to craft a progressive anti-colonial discourse that placed a strong emphasis on social, political, and religious reform. To achieve this, they employed a diverse range of artistic mediums, including folklore, visual art, and satire. Their groundbreaking periodical, Moll? Nasreddin, featured full-page lithographic cartoons in vibrant colors, reaching tens of thousands of people across the Muslim world. From Iran and Turkey to India and Egypt, the journal's impact on the thinking of a generation was profound. At the helm of this publication was Jalil Mamedqolizadeh, an Azerbaijani educator and playwright, who saw Moll? Nasreddin as a platform for advocating for other oppressed Muslim populations and colonized peoples worldwide. As a transnational and social democratic publication, Moll? Nasreddin sought to challenge the dominant narratives and ideologies of the time. It recast the trickster trope, presenting Nasreddin as a wise and compassionate figure who used his wit and intelligence to challenge the oppressive systems of power. The journal's cartoons and illustrations were heavily influenced by European graphic artists, who brought their own unique styles and techniques to the table. This book delves into the milieu in which Moll? Nasreddin emerged, exploring the journal's innovative approach to storytelling and its impact on shaping the cultural landscape of the Muslim world. It sheds light on the ways in which the periodical challenged traditional narratives and promoted a more inclusive and progressive vision for the future. Through its vibrant illustrations and thought-provoking content, Moll? Nasreddin remains a testament to the power of art and literature to inspire social change and challenge the status quo.

Dimension: 246 x 189 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474499507