Commitment and beyond

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This book explores the interplay between literature, society, and politics in the Arab world, focusing on the evolving concept of the political in Arabic literature, theater, and visual arts throughout modern history. It investigates historical and contemporary views of literary commitment (iltizām) and the idea of "writing with a cause" from the 1940s to the present. Beginning with the literary practices during the 'Arab Spring,' it traces the roots of literary politicization in the 1940s and 1950s, examines shifts in literary engagement through the late 1960s, and continues through the 1990s up to 2011. The chapters critically reassess both current and historical understandings of the political in modern Arabic literature, emphasizing iltizām as an evolving concept that challenges the role of literature and authors in society. While several research volumes have addressed Arab literary engagement, this book uniquely examines the ongoing relationship between literature and politics from the 1940s onward. It highlights iltizām's adaptability as a literary concept, especially in light of the 'Arab Spring.' Additionally, it consolidates insights from established and emerging scholars in modern Arab literary and cultural history, filling a significant gap in Arabic Literary Studies by re-evaluating the legacy of literary commitment amid contemporary developments.