Arabic – Poetry Pre-Islamic Era – 1AS – Letters

Poetry of the Pre-Islamic Era

Pre-Islamic poetry is considered the diwan of the Arabs containing their history wisdom and values. It flourished in the Arabian Peninsula before Islam.

Characteristics

• Strong language and precise vocabulary
• Clear imagery and description
• Traditional structure: starting with ruins then description then praise
• Rich in wisdom and proverbs

Most Famous Poets

Imru al-Qais author of the suspended poem. Zuhayr ibn Abi Sulma known for wisdom. Al-Nabigha al-Dhubyani. Antara ibn Shaddad known for courage and romance.

Purposes of Pre-Islamic Poetry

Praise satire lamentation description wisdom boasting courtship.

Exercises

Answer: 1) What are the characteristics of pre-Islamic poetry? 2) Name three famous pre-Islamic poets. 3) What are the main purposes of this poetry?

See Pre-Islamic Poetry and Abbasid Era.