Abstract
This paper offers an analysis of the concept of the epic hero/heroine in Arabic folklore and young adolescent stories showing how the creation of fantasy worlds in the discussed texts is related to the notion of growing up. The scope of the research includes the discussion of the development of children literature and fantastic literature for children in Arabic with a focus on examples from Ancient Egyptian myths, epic folktales and selected texts of modern Egyptian fiction for children and young readers. It will discuss the genre of epic fantasy, with its origins in patriarchal mythologies, and how it has traditionally been the realm of male protagonists and masculine modes of heroism. Authors of children’s epic fantasy, however, often portray pairings of male and female child protagonists working together in the fight against evil. And yet, despite the inclusion of female protagonists in many epic fantasies for children, patriarchal values dominate the genre, as aggression, physical prowess, rational detachment, and action define the hero. The study examines the female child protagonist and the intersection of girlhood and heroism as depicted in Ancient Egyptian and epic fantasies in Arabic folklore and modern fiction for young readers today. The general aim of this study is to enhance the understanding and promote further discussion on the topic of the development of children literature, especially fantastic literature for children.
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
KEYWORDS
EPIC HEROES, FANTASTIC,MYTHS
