Document Type : Research in linguistic and literary studies
Authors
1
Department of English Faculty of Arts and Humanities Suez Canal University
2
Department of English Faculty of Arts PortSaid University
Abstract
This paper examines intertextuality in Gamal Elgezeery’s postmodern novel Nisf Majhul (An Unknown Half) (2020), which intricately merges times, events, and characters while incorporating diverse cultural references. Using a descriptive and analytical approach, the study explores intertextuality within the novel across multiple dimensions, including religion, literature, mythology, folklore, proverbs, media, and historical events such as the Arab Spring. Elgezeery skillfully integrates intertextual elements to enrich the narrative, engaging readers through allusions to literary works like A Doll’s House, Animal Farm, and The Open Door, as well as myths such as Sisyphus and Oedipus. By referencing the Qur’an, classical and contemporary poetry, popular songs, and Egyptian proverbs, he enhances cultural resonance while embedding deeper philosophical and political critiques. His intertextual strategies create dialogues between texts, inviting critical reflection on themes of authority, identity, freedom, and societal norms. The novel’s engagement with historical and contemporary references, such as the Egyptian January 25 Revolution and modern media content, further connects past and present, broadening the interpretive scope. Through satire, rephrased proverbs, and strategic distortions of familiar narratives, Elgezeery challenges traditional interpretations, adding humor and depth to his work. Ultimately, intertextuality in Nisf Majhul serves as a dynamic literary tool, fostering a multilayered reading experience that bridges historical, cultural, and philosophical discourse.
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