Arabic – Literature Andalusian Literature – 3AS – Letters

Andalusian Literature Unique Features

Andalusian literature developed unique forms and themes reflecting the multicultural society of Islamic Spain.

Historical Background

Muslim rule in Spain 711-1492 CE created a rich cultural environment mixing Arab Berber Christian and Jewish traditions.

Poetic Forms

Muwashshah: strophic poem with classical and vernacular elements. Kharja: final verse in dialect or Romance language. Zajal: fully vernacular strophic poem.

Themes

Nature: gardens rivers flowers. Love and longing. The beauty of cities like Cordoba Granada Seville. Elegy for the lost homeland.

Key Poets

Ibn Zaydun Wallada bint al-Mustakfi Al-Mutamid ibn Abbad Lisan al-Din ibn al-Khatib.

Exercises

1) What is the muwashshah? 2) What themes characterize Andalusian poetry? 3) Name two Andalusian poets.

See Andalusian Literature and Abbasid Poetry.