Arab Roots in European Literature: Atil, Shakespeare and Antarah ibn Shaddad from the Arabian Desert to the Stage of London.

Abstract

#This research explores the influence of Arab culture on European literature through a comparative study between the Arabian biography of Antarah ibn Shaddad and his poetry, and the play "Atil" by the English writer William Shakespeare. It examines the similarities in plot and characters between the two works, analyzing the construction of the narrative and the main and secondary characters, highlighting over seventy points of resemblance. The research presents the general impact of Arab culture on Shakespeare's works, discussing specific aspects such as love stories and chivalry, and drawing on testimonials from Western researchers to confirm the transmission of Arab literary works to Europe and their influence on writers and poets there. The study yields several findings, contributing to a better understanding of the convergence, integration, and mutual influence of cultures. It also fosters collaboration between different departments in research and academic institutions, shedding light on comparative literature and the impact of Arab culture on global cultures. Furthermore, it demonstrates the reciprocal influence between different literary traditions as a fundamental aspect of comparative literature.