الأدب العربي والنقد الاجتماعي لقضايا المرأة: بين الخطاب الديني والاجتماعي والسياسي

Arabic Literature and the Social Critique of Women’s Issues: Between Religious, Social, and Political Discourse

Abstract

This study examines the social critique of women’s issues in Arabic literature, viewing literature as a cultural space that reflects and questions social transformations related to women’s rights and status. The research is based on the assumption that Arabic literature does not merely depict women’s issues narratively but actively engages in criticizing the social and cultural structures that have contributed to marginalization and inequality.

The study focuses on four major themes that closely relate to women’s lived realities: forced marriage, divorce, education, and women’s work. Using a critical analytical approach, the research analyzes selected literary texts from Arabic novels, short stories, and essays to explore how these issues are represented and how literature interacts with religious, social, and political discourses surrounding women.

Forced marriage is portrayed in Arabic literature as a manifestation of social and familial control, depriving women of free choice and leading to profound psychological and social consequences. Literary texts often distinguish between authentic religious discourse, which emphasizes consent and mutual agreement, and social practices that misuse religion to justify coercion.

Divorce is represented as a complex social phenomenon rather than a mere legal procedure. Arabic literature highlights the unequal social burden placed on women after divorce, exposing social stigma and double standards while giving voice to women’s personal experiences and struggles.

The study concludes that Arabic literature has played a significant role in raising social awareness about women’s rights and injustices. Through its critical engagement with dominant discourses, literature emerges as an influential force capable of challenging social norms and contributing to cultural and social chan