The Arabic Theory of Prosification and Versification: On Hall and Nazm in Arabic Theoretical Discourse

The Arabic Theory of Prosification and Versification.  On hall and nazm in Arabic Theoretical Discourse

For the first time, a comprehensive analysis is made in regard to the de¬velopment of the Arabic theory of prosification and versification, that is, how poetical materials are utilized in prose compositions and vice versa. This study examines the trajectory of development from the stage of studied vagueness and intuitiveness to that of explicit categorization at the hands of Ibn al-Athir ( d. 637/ 1239 ) as reflected in his al- Washy al¬marqum, so far the oldest and extant expose on the theory and practice of the device.

The systernatic rendering of the Arabic poetical schemata and thematic stereotypes into prose with appropriate model essays by al-Nayramani (403/1012) in his Manthur al-manzum, the earliest and probably the only surviving effort of the type, is duly analyzed in this monograph. Eager explorers in the field of intertextuality will find the present contribution a useful addition to their library.

Language: English
ISBN: 9783899130690
1998, Paperback, 199 pages, 17.0 x 24.0 cm