Manifestation Of Myth In Algerian Theater – The Play Al-Hawat And Al-Qasr As A Model

Abstract

This study aims to examine the integration and expression of myth within Algerian theater, with a specific focus on the play Al-Hawat and Al-Qasr. Here, mythological elements imbue the narrative with profound symbols and layered meanings, showcasing how the playwright, Omar Fatmouch, ingeniously weaves various myths into the fabric of his theatrical exposition. Notably, the Greek mermaid myth, the Egyptian tale of Isis and Osiris, and narratives of sacrifice and deified heroes are adeptly incorporated to cultivate a sense of wonder and spectacle, captivating the audience with a tapestry rich in mythological resonance.

Mythology serves as both a foundational framework and a creative instrument through which the playwright articulates diverse messages that mirror the political, economic, and social climates of the era, thus revealing the multifaceted nature of political figures and addressing the pivotal inquiry of this study: How is myth manifested in Al-Hawat and Al-Qasr? This inquiry further extends into various sub-questions concerning the characteristics of myth, the essence of theater, and their interplay.