Manifestations of the Faust myth in Arab theater

Abstract

The study illuminates manifestations of the Faust myth in Arab theater, particularly in Tawfiq al-Hakim and Ali Ahmed Bakthir, charting their divergent inspirations and appropriations.

It employs a comparative literary methodology, tracing the myth's evolution from Marlowe to Goethe, then its transformation in "Towards a Better Life" and "The New Faust."

Central questions probe the myth's nature and Western development, alongside Arab writers' reception and adaptation to Islamic culture.

It also examines acculturation mechanisms between symbolic creativity (al-Hakim) and traditionalism (Bakthir).