تاريخ النقد الأدبي عند العرب (٢) النقد الأدبي في العصر الجاهلي.

Introduction

This tutorial explores the history of literary criticism in the Arab world, particularly during the pre-Islamic era (العصر الجاهلي). Understanding this subject provides insight into how literary values and critical standards evolved in Arab culture.

Step 1: Understand the Context of Pre-Islamic Poetry

• Explore the role of poetry in pre-Islamic Arab society.
• Recognize that poetry was not just an art form; it was essential for preserving history, culture, and social values.
• Identify key themes in pre-Islamic poetry, such as honor, tribal loyalty, love, and nature.

Step 2: Identify Key Figures in Pre-Islamic Literary Criticism

• Research notable poets and critics from the era.
• Learn about figures such as Imru' al-Qais and Antarah ibn Shaddad, whose works exemplified early literary criticism.
• Discuss how these poets influenced the standards of beauty and eloquence in poetry.

Step 3: Explore the Characteristics of Pre-Islamic Poetry

• Focus on the distinct features of pre-Islamic poetry:
  • Meter and Rhyme: Understand the use of specific meters (like the Al-Kamil or Al-Mutakareb) and rhyme schemes.
  • Imagery and Symbolism: Note how poets employed vivid imagery and symbolic language to convey deeper meanings.
  • Themes and Motifs: Identify recurring motifs such as the desert, animals, and the concept of fate.

Step 4: Analyze the Evolution of Literary Criticism

• Investigate how the emergence of Islam influenced literary criticism.
• Examine the shift in themes from pre-Islamic to Islamic poetry, noting changes in values and societal norms.
• Discuss how Islamic scholars began to formalize literary criticism, establishing new criteria for evaluating poetry.

Step 5: Recognize the Impact of Oral Tradition

• Acknowledge the significance of oral tradition in shaping literary criticism.
• Understand that poetry was often performed, leading to an interactive form of criticism based on audience reaction.
• Explore how oral culture valued memory and performance, impacting how poetry was critiqued.

Conclusion

The study of literary criticism in pre-Islamic Arab culture reveals a rich tapestry of artistic expression and cultural values. Key takeaways include the importance of poetry in society, the influence of notable figures, and the evolution of critical standards. To further explore this topic, consider reading works by renowned pre-Islamic poets or delving into the historical context of their writings. This knowledge not only enriches your understanding of Arabic literature but also enhances appreciation for its enduring legacy.