Arabic Novel: An Historical and Critical Introduction (Contemporary Issues in the Middle East)

A foundational guide to one of the most dynamic literary traditions of the modern world, <i>The Arabic Novel</i> offers a clear and authoritative introduction to the development of the Arabic novel from its nineteenth-century beginnings to the contemporary period. In this fully revised second edition, Roger Allen expands and updates his landmark study to reflect new critical debates, emerging authors, and evolving narrative forms. Through incisive close readings and thematic analysis, the book explores key issues such as realism, nationalism, gender, identity, exile, and experimentation, illuminating the richness and diversity of the genre. <i>The Arabic Novel</i> is an essential resource for students, teachers, and general readers seeking a deeper understanding of Arabic literature.

<b>Roger Allen</b> is the author of <i>A Period of Time: al-Muwaylihi’s Hadith ‘Isa ibn </i><i>Hisham</i> and <i>Modern Arabic Literature</i>. He has written and translated numerous articles on modern Arabic fiction and drama on Arabic language pedagogy. He taught Arabic language and literature at the University of Pennsylvania. He is the translator of several works including <i>The Heart of Lebanon</i> by Ameen Rihani.