Feminine Archetypes in One Thousand and One Nights: A Study from an Islamic Cultural Lens

Abstract

The current research provides an in-depth analysis of feminine archetypes in collection one could call the most famous Middle Eastern fairy tales, One Thousand and One Nights, within Islamic culture. The current research is qualitative in nature and utilizes a comprehensive textual analysis of One Thousand and One Nights, focusing on the portrayal of feminine archetypes. Theoretical framework is of Islamic feminism that seeks to reconcile Islamic principles with feminist ideals, advocating for gender equality and justice within Islamic contexts. The research is based upon Islamic teachings, historical context and literary analysis, and it uses these three methods to unfold the women’s various images in these stories. The results of this study reveal a subtler portrait of female archetypes which reflects the transformation from society to least girls’ self-concepts, and power in Islamic societies. Through thematic analysis, different types of characters appear. Ranging from the vigorous Scheherazade with her intellectual skill and resourcefulness to those soft, wise mothers who give moral guidance to children. The research concludes with emphasis of the analysis upon the construction of archetypical feminine identities from the standpoint of cultural Islam.

Keywords:  Gender Roles, Islamic Cultural Perspective, Islamic Literature, Motifs, One Thousand And One Nights