Modern Man's Predicament in the Selected Novels by Naguib Mahfouz

Abstract

Abstract: This study aims at analyzing the selected novels of Naguib Mahfouz in the light of the existential predicament of man. Such predicament is manifested in the aspects of despair, frustration, betrayal and poverty. The study assumes the existentialism as a theory and topic to comment on the situation. This study aims at the following objectives: To analyze a reflection of moral chaos in Naguib Mahfouz's selected novels. To show the modern man's predicament based on the selected novels by Naguib Mahfouz. To explain how existentialism is able to express the predicament of the modern man based on Naguib Mahfouz's selected novels? This study follows the existential theory as an outline onto how the project of the present study will be carried out. It specifically presented the theoretical framework of the study, as well as the related theories and concepts necessary for data collection and interpretation. The study arrives at the conclusion and findings that the moral chaos in Naguib Mahfouz's selected novels of the study are a genuine fact of the aftermath of colonial period in Egypt. Moreover, modern man's predicament is brilliantly portrayed in the characters who are in a constant struggle to journey from their repressed daily affairs into the post-colonial lifestyle. Such shift from traditions to modernity has led to the existential predicament on the account of the modern Egyptian individual and society. The study examines the life of the Egyptian community from the existential perspective; and it is necessary for the Arab countries to consider. The study is open for further research like feminism, gender studies, and the familial relationships.