Document Type : Research Paper
Abstract
This study focused on the image of the blind in ancient Arabic texts and blindness as one of the most difficult human conditions. There are reportedly few specialised books that discuss blind people in particular, and these studies were limited to pages that were characterised by historicity in mentioning their names, lineages, and nobles. Even Al-Jahiz (d. 255 AH), who is renowned for his wit, stories, anecdotes, depth, and unique outlook on life, realism, and foresight, lost his literary essence when discussing them. He only mentioned their names in his work "Al-Barsan, the Lame, the Blind, and the Cross-eyed," and this trend may be due to feelings of pity and compassion. In addressing them.
The book " Naktul Himyan fi Naktil Omyan” is considered one of the late sources that sheds light on this oppressed and isolated group, and it includes in its entirety the news of the educated elites of the blind, as well as their anecdotes, circumstances, stories, and creativity.
Given the above, the study used an analytical and inductive approach. It attempted to cut through the concepts in these texts and clarify their aesthetics.
According to the study, this group has strong morals, intelligence, tenderness, and wit. They become more aware of their environment and become activists for change and improvement.
Despite the lack of interest in blindness in prose literature, because the sighted person is the one who mostly records the reality of literature, we find stories, especially symbolism and anecdotes, that reveal hidden worlds related to them, hidden in the text.
Main Subjects