Ebn-Almoqaffa in Narrative and Poetry (Formerly known as Quarterly of Arabic Language and Literature

Ebn-Almoqaffa in Narrative and Poetry (Formerly known as Quarterly of Arabic Language and Literature

A Study of the Intellectual Backgrounds in the Literature of Abu al-Ala al-Ma'arri: An Analytical Approach in Light of Fairclough's Critical Discourse Analysis

Articles in Press

Document Type : Research Paper

Author
ali ganjian khenari
Department of Arabic Language and Literature, Allameh Tabataba'i University, Tehran, Iran
10.22059/jal-lq.2026.415115.1593
Abstract
This research seeks to study the intellectual underpinnings of Abu al-Ala al-Ma'arri's literature through an analytical approach based on Norman Fairclough's discourse analysis theory. Al-Ma'arri is considered one of the most prominent intellectual figures in the Arab intellectual tradition, distinguished by his philosophical depth and critical inclination, which allowed his texts to transcend the aesthetic dimension and reach a broad intellectual and epistemological horizon. The study's significance lies in revealing how reason is present in his literature as a critical discourse that reinterprets humanity, society, and cultural and religious heritage. The study begins with the premise that al-Ma'arri's texts are based on a coherent intellectual system manifested in his philosophical reflections, his critique of social and religious norms, and his ethical vision of existence. The research also highlights the role of language and rhetorical figures in constructing this intellectual discourse, where vocabulary and artistic techniques become tools for producing knowledge and expressing intellectual and ideological positions. The study examines the intellectual roots that influenced al-Ma'arri, beginning with the pre-Islamic heritage that instilled in him a sense of wisdom, moving through Mu'tazilite and Kalamic thought that elevated reason, and culminating in Greek philosophy, which entered Arabic culture through translation. It also considers the impact of his personal experience and intellectual isolation on shaping his critical vision. These backgrounds contributed to directing his texts toward questioning social and cultural rea
Keywords
Rationalism, Abu al-Ala al-Ma'
arri, Critical Analysis, Fairclough
Subjects
Ebn-Almoqaffa in Narrative and Poetry (Formerly known as Quarterly of Arabic Language and Literature

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 12 September 2026