Analysis of Al-Manfaluti’s Thought and Language Style in the Novel Majdulin

This study examines the thought and linguistic style of Mustafa Lutfi al Manfaluti in the novel Majdulin with particular emphasis on the relationship between rhetorical language and psychological influence on readers. The study aims to analyze the dimensions of humanism, romanticism and social criticism reflected in al-Manfaluti’s thought, while also identifying the functions of balaghah elements, especially tasybih (simile), in shaping emotional and intellectual responses among readers. A qualitative descriptive approach based on content analysis was employed using Majdulin as the primary text, supported by secondary sources related to Arabic rhetoric, modern Arabic literature and literary criticism. The findings reveal that al-Manfaluti successfully integrates classical Arabic balaghah with modern romantic prose through the extensive use of symbolic imagery, emotional narration and artistic language. The study further demonstrates that tasybih functions not merely as a rhetorical ornament, but as a psychological and aesthetic instrument that strengthens emotional engagement and social awareness. In addition, the research highlights that al-Manfaluti’s writings reflect a strong humanistic orientation through critiques of social hypocrisy, injustice and moral decline within society. Although certain aspects of his writing appear overly sentimental and idealistic from a contemporary perspective, these characteristics represent an important feature of early modern Arabic romanticism. Overall, this study concludes that al Manfaluti’s literary contribution lies not only in the beauty of his language but also in his ability to employ literature as a medium for emotional education, social consciousness and the cultivation of human values.

Mustafa Lutfi al-Manfaluti, Majdulin, Arabic Romanticism, Balaghah, Tasybih,

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