The Image of the Hero Between Al-Mutanabi’s Saifiat and Abu Firas Al-Hamdani’s Romiat: A Comparative Study

Abstract

Objectives: The study seeks to highlight the image of the hero in al-Mutanabi’s Saifiat and Abu Firas al-Hamdani’s Romiat; whether the hero is the caliph or the poet who acquires a heroic rank by virtue of being attached to the caliph, Sayf al-Dawla. Hence, the study traces the similarities and differences between al-Mutanabi’s hero and al-Hamdani’s hero.

Methods: The study is basically descriptive, and it relies on textual analysis. It tackles sixty-eight poetic lines which reflect the image of the hero that was prominent in the era under discussion.

Results: As Saifiat and Romiat make clear, the study shows that the two poets realized the importance of getting close to the ruler’s court and making their poetry at the service of praising the caliph. By so doing, the poets think of themselves as heroes due to their attachment to the caliph (the central hero). That is, the poets acquire heroic qualities as a result of being surrounded by heroism and heroic deeds. Hence, being connected to the caliph has the double merit of fulfilling the dream of becoming a hero and pleasing the caliph, satisfying both the self and the other.

Conclusion: The study reveals that al-Mutanabi and al-Hamdani depict the hero as a knight of war whom people admire for raising their aspirations and giving them strength. Moreover, The hero is recognized as a peacekeeping knight, valued not just for martial prowess but also for fostering peace and prosperity, earning distinction in society.