Blog entry 12: Arabic tales

ARABIC TALES

DISTINCTIONS

Arabic tales begin with "It was or it wasn't" rather than "Once upon a time." In this way, the reader is captivated by the mystery of the story that hasn't even begun yet. In the beginning of the tale, the author includes a slew of 'nonsense' rhymes to grab the reader's attention, creating a 'mattress' or farash for the story. Then comes the frame story, which provides a base which the author can spin off of and be creative.

Pre-Islam, Arabic was an oral language, and only the elites were able to read. Since the 'illiterate' masses could not read, the songs and recitations of these tales in the market were an opportunity of unity. It did not matter if one couldn't read or write because these poets would compete in the market to tell the most captivating stories.

Since the Arab culture is conservative, women storytellers only told their tales within their homes, not out in public. However, as Dr. Zaru explained, this provided the opportunity for women to express ideas that are not usually spoken about or considered taboo. 

The most popular themes in Arabic tales is the struggle of the underdog and the triumph against adversity. For example, even the stories of Joha the simpleton leave the reader rooting for his success in his silly moments when he somehow always knew what to say.

http://muslimheritage.com/article/mulla-nasruddin-khodja-major-character-muslim-satiric-literature

SIMILARITIES

Like African tales, many Arabic tales incorporated music and songs in their telling. Also, the idea of a community-based society rather than an individual-based society is practiced in both Arabic and African culture. 
Arabic and Jewish tales alike share a humorous element that is often omitted in Western tales. 
The tale of Kalila wa Dimna reminded me of the Native American tales we read because the jackals in the story spoke and offered advice and guidance for the sons of the king.

http://muslimheritage.com/article/kalila-wa-dimna