The White Sheikh Novel by Sheikh Dr. Sultan Mohammed Al Qasimi: A Semiotic Reading in its Textual Thresholds

Abstract

Objectives: This research seeks to reveal the textual thresholds parallel to the novel of The White Sheikh by His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, Sheikh Dr. Sultan Mohammed Al Qasimi, from a striking title and cover, revealing introduction and then the word cover.

Methods: The semiotic approach has been applied in this study as it is appropriate in reading the thresholds of this novel entitled (The White Sheikh). This approach is also appropriate in this study as it leads the researcher to a wide range of denotations suggestions, indications, and interpretations.

Results: The study has shown the importance of textual thresholds in revealing the content of this novel. The title reveals the identity of the protagonist of the novel entitled (A White American Sheikh). The cover, with its drawings, lines, and colors, reveals the atmosphere of the novel, the figure of its hero, his adventures, and his movements. The introduction and the last words on the cover reveal the reality of the novel and the secret of its authorship. All of the above-mentioned points show that choosing these thresholds was intended to serve the text and reveal its features to the readership.

Conclusions: The research has revealed that the textual thresholds in this novel have a great relationship with the body of the novel. Those thresholds have illuminated and indicated the body of the novel. It is inferred that tracing the thresholds in any novels seems to be an important critical necessity.