The Fantastic in Arabic and Western Literature

Abstract

The aim of this research is to explain the concept of the “fantastic,” a critical and narrative term that, despite being relatively new, has deep roots in both Arab and global literary traditions. The fantastic signifies a breach of all that is realistic and rational, embracing everything that transcends and anticipates reality. This anticipation can either be negative, plunging into the realm of the absurd, or positive, opening up to what is extraordinary and free from the constraints of logic and the everyday. Here, it implies liberation and catharsis, allowing the creator to shed the weight of heavy restrictions. I chose to explore the fantastic in both Arabic and Western literature, beginning with a discussion of its concept, conditions, and terminology, and then addressing the fantastic and the marvelous in the context of Arabic and Western literature. The marvelous deepens the dose of interpretation within the studied work, not limiting its approach to a single, superficial reading, but rather opening up to many and varied readings. The marvelous represents a common point for drawing from authentic Arab heritage, on the one hand, and opening up to the achievements of ancient and modern world literature alike, which confirms its human dimension and absolute comprehensiveness.