Elements of Magical Realism in Mahmoud al-Rahbi's Novel "The Way of the Bewitched"

This research examines the artistic method of Omani writer Mahmoud al-Rahbi, using the novel "The Way of Bewitched" as a case study. The article reveals characteristics of magical realism as a means of expressing the Omani writer's ideas. Elements of this movement are described: folkloric inclusions, retrocausality, demonic creatures, and other details. His writing style is analyzed, and his creative method is defined. Magical realism helps to view the world around us from unexpected angles, enriching reality with folkloric details. This broad perspective allows the writer to philosophically generalize about the processes unfolding in life. The use of internal monologues and dreams allows for a deeper understanding of the characters' personalities. The novel weaves together several plot lines, united by the image of a girl who falls into a lethargic sleep and is suddenly resurrected. The study was conducted using historical-literary, comparative, and hermeneutic methods, employing general scientific methods of observation and description, analysis and synthesis, and others. It is concluded that magical realism, through the intersection of various timelines and new methods of generalization, allows Mahmud al-Rahbi not only to engage the reader with an oriental flavor but also to truthfully and vividly depict life in the Sultanate of Oman. Fairytale, mystical, and fantastical elements transform the everyday life of an Omani village, infusing it with surreal undertones. Al-Rahbi's magical realism avoids dogma and ideologicalization of social life, but rather a legend played out by real characters. The scent of incense, sorcerers, a resurrected bride, and other fairytale details are embedded in traditional everyday life, synthesized with polyphony, and adapted to contemporary ideological and artistic demands. The relevance and scientific novelty of this study are due to the fact that the work of this writer is little known outside the Arab world.

Sultanate of Oman, Arabic literature, modern novel, Mahmud al-Rahbi, The Way of the Bewitched, magical realism, polystadial features, Eastern mythology, Arabic folklore, Islamic demonology