The problematics and imagery in Mahmud Taymur’s cycle of stories about superstitions

the article analyzes a cycle of short stories by the classic of modern Arabic literature, Egyptian writer Mahmud Taymur, devoted to the theme of the origin and exposure of superstitions. Belonging to the older generation of writers, Taymur raised pressing social issues of the 1920s-1930s, including fascination with European values and the neglect of national traditions. His works also reflect his search for new genres and forms, influenced by European literature. These changes manifested in plot construction, character depiction, and stylistic techniques. The article examines Taymur’s stories written in 1925-1926, forming a cycle about superstitions, including “Sheikh Juma,” “Sheikh Seyyid the Simpleton”, “Amm Mitwalli,” “Sheikh Naim, Imam or ‘The Polygamist,’” and “The Sheikh of Security.” While noting the kindness and naivety of ordinary people, the author sharply criticizes the negative aspects of their lives. The stories demonstrate the strengthening of realist tendencies and the emergence of new socially differentiated characters.

Egyptian literature, Mahmud Taymur, short story genre, issues, imagery, cycle of stories about superstitions