Social Reflection in the Novel “ ‘Inâdul Amwâj” by Muhammad Jibril ( A Study by Alan Swingewood)

Abstract

This study examines various aspects of the sociology of literature in the novel “’Inâdul Amwâj” by Muhammad Jibril, using Alan Swingewood’s approach to the sociology of literature. This study aims to uncover the authorial production, social reflections, and historical connections contained within the novel. The method used is qualitative descriptive analysis, employing read-and-note and content analysis of text excerpts that represent the social reality of the 20^th century Egypt. The results of the study reveal three main findings. First, the creation of Muhammad Jibril’s novel ‘Inâdul Amwâj was shaped by the author’s background as a prominent journalist in Egypt and his spatial proximity to the city of Alexandria. These factors motivated Muhammad Jibril to write this work. Second, the novel reflects the sociopolitical dynamics of the 20^th century. This is evident through the portrayal of various aspects of social structure, such as authoritarian power (surveillance, abductions, and torture) familial relations, class conflict, population composition. Third, the novel is deeply connections to 20^th century history. This study makes a significant contribution by demonstrating that the novel ‘Inâdul Amwâj serves as a social document of Egyptian society’s criticism and resistance through literature.