Arab Women Writers

This book provides an in-depth exploration of Arab women's literature from the nineteenth century to the twentieth century, highlighting key authors and their works. Arab Women Writers is a vital resource.

The book Arab Women Writers serves as a comprehensive reference and critical review of the contributions made by Arab women authors from the late nineteenth century to the close of the twentieth century. It explores the literary journeys of pioneering figures such as ‘A’isha al-Taymuriya, Warda al-Yaziji, and Zaynab Fawwaz, highlighting their roles in shaping the landscape of Arab literature. This unique study, initially published in Arabic in 2004, not only examines the works of these early writers but also traces the evolution of women's literature across the Arab world up to 1999.

In the first section, nine insightful essays delve into the origins and developments of women’s writing in various Arab nations, spanning from Morocco to Iraq and Syria to Yemen. These essays, contributed by critics and writers from the region, address diverse literary forms, including fiction, poetry, drama, and autobiographical narratives. This thorough examination provides readers with a deeper understanding of the cultural and historical contexts that influenced these writers and their works.

The second part of Arab Women Writers features a meticulously curated bibliography of over 1,200 Arab women writers, detailing their biographies and published works. This section encompasses writings in Arabic, French, and English, along with translations into English, making it an invaluable resource for scholars and enthusiasts of Arabic literature, women's studies, and comparative literature. With its extensive research and broad scope, this book is essential for anyone looking to explore the rich history of Arab women's literary contributions.