Criticism and Theory of Arabic SF

Abstract

This chapter undertakes an examination of Arab perspectives on Arabic SF (ASF), in conjunction with Western perspectives on the genre, in order to construct a theoretical apparatus for ASF. The chapter begins with the situation commonly called “diglossia”: the language in which literature is written is significantly different from the language(s) people speak. ASF, therefore, always already has an archaic feel, even if it’s written about the future: this colors readers’ reactions to the genre. The chapter next surveys extant works of criticism of ASF by Arabic literary critics, whose preoccupations are rather different from those of Western critics of Western SF. As we move into the twenty-first century, Arab critics’ perspectives begin to address SF theory from the West, but maintain their own terms and structure. The final section of the chapter assembles a theoretical apparatus through which the close readings of formative novels will function. The primary feature of this apparatus will be what I term double estrangement: along with its surface narrative, a work of ASF may also contain a level of political or social critique, and another level wherein it critiques the lack of scientific/technological development or social/moral change within contemporary Arab societies.