The Routledge Handbook of Arabic Poetry

The Routledge Handbook of Arabic Poetry is a comprehensive collection of essays by renowned scholars that explores the political, cultural, and theoretical aspects of Arabic poetry from its 15th-century origins to the present day. It deconstructs the artificial modern/pre-modern divide and presents the Arabic poetic practice as live and urgent, shaped by the experiences and challenges of the 21st century while in constant conversation with its long tradition. The handbook also highlights the interactions of the Arabic tradition with other Middle Eastern traditions and South-South ideological and poetic networks of solidarity. It is an essential resource for scholars and students of Arabic, Middle Eastern, and comparative literature, as well as non-specialists interested in poetry and the study of Arabic poetry in the present moment.

Format: Hardback
Length: 398 pages
Publication date: 22 December 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The Routledge Handbook of Arabic Poetry is a groundbreaking work that brings together the expertise of renowned international scholars to provide a comprehensive and multifaceted exploration of Arabic poetry. This comprehensive handbook encompasses a wide range of political, cultural, and theoretical paradigms, which serve as valuable tools for understanding the socio-political contexts of poetic projects and illuminating the intricate connections across the vast expanse of the Arabic tradition.

At its core, this volume firmly establishes itself in the present moment, using this as a vantage point to examine the profound transformations that have shaped the fifteen-century Arabic poetic tradition. Through a rigorous process of readings, re-readings, translations, reformulations, and co-optations, the handbook delves into the rich tapestry of Arabic poetic expressions, shedding light on the ways in which they have evolved and adapted to the changing times.

Furthermore, this collection aims to challenge the artificial divide between modern and pre-modern periods, presenting the Arabic poetic practice as a vibrant and urgent endeavor that is deeply influenced by the experiences and challenges of the twenty-first century. At the same time, it remains in constant dialogue with its long and rich heritage, drawing upon the timeless wisdom and insights of the past to inform and enrich its contemporary manifestations.

One of the key strengths of The Routledge Handbook of Arabic Poetry lies in its commitment to destabilizing binaries and promoting a more nuanced understanding of the Arabic tradition. By examining the interactions between Arabic poetry and other Middle Eastern traditions, such as Persian, Turkish, and Hebrew, as well as the solidarity-based South-South ideological and poetic networks that have influenced poetic currents across the modern Middle East, the handbook offers a rich tapestry of cross-cultural influences and exchanges.

This volume is an invaluable resource for scholars and students of Arabic, Middle Eastern, and comparative literature, as well as for non-specialists interested in poetry and in the current state of the study of Arabic poetry. Its comprehensive coverage, insightful analysis, and interdisciplinary approach make it an essential tool for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of this rich and complex literary tradition.

In conclusion, The Routledge Handbook of Arabic Poetry is a groundbreaking work that offers a comprehensive and multifaceted exploration of Arabic poetry. By incorporating political, cultural, and theoretical paradigms, and by examining the transformations of the Arabic poetic tradition through a range of critical approaches, this handbook provides a valuable resource for scholars, students, and enthusiasts alike. Its commitment to destabilizing binaries, promoting cross-cultural understanding, and presenting the Arabic poetic practice as live and urgent makes it an essential contribution to the field of Arabic literature and beyond.

Weight: 930g
Dimension: 254 x 178 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367562359