Focusing on national identity, the book examines how language, particularly Arabic, serves as a tool for expressing political, cultural, and historical distinctions. With its deep-rooted heritage and prevalence in the Middle East, Arabic becomes a lens through which the complex conflicts of the region can be understood. The exploration highlights the interplay between language and identity, offering insights into the broader socio-political dynamics at play.
The pre-modern period saw a background of inter-ethnic strife among Arabs and non-Arabs, mainly Persians. Starting from the symbolic and cognitive roles of language, the author shows how discussions about the inimitability and (un)translatability of the Qur'an in this period were, at some deep level, concerned with issues of ethnic election.
Focusing on the often-overlooked relationship between identity and language in the Middle East and North Africa, this book explores various themes central to scholarly discussions in the region. It addresses the significance of these issues, highlighting their relevance to understanding the complexities of identity in a strategically important part of the world. Through its examination, the book aims to contribute to a deeper discourse on these critical topics.
Exploring the intricate relationship between language and national identity, Yasir Suleiman presents a comprehensive analysis of nationalism in the Middle East over the last two centuries. He investigates cultural and political nationalism, focusing on the Arab past, the interplay between Arab and Turkish identities, and key ideological trends linking language to territorial nationalism. This pioneering study offers valuable insights for scholars in nationalism, Arabic Studies, history, cultural studies, and sociolinguistics, establishing a foundation for future research in the field.