The place in the novel Burka by Hamid Al-Harizi

Abstract

Place is one of the basic components of the narrative structure, as it represents the pillar on which the narrative structure is based, and gives it the required artistic coherence. The relationship between the novel and place is an integral one, as the novel relies on it to construct its narrative world, and to link its internal components with a tight bond. Place, in turn, needs the narrative narrative to give it its semantic dimensions and give it an aesthetic character that enhances its presence in the text. Hence, place appears as an essential element in the art of the novel, not just a background for events, but rather a basic pillar that contributes to shaping the narrative experience and directing its connotations. Despite the essential importance of place in literary texts in general, and in the novel in particular, critical interest in it remained limited for long periods, especially in Arab studies, where critical research mostly focused on analyzing other narrative components, such as the structure of events, character functions, narrative time, and linguistic style, while place did not receive the extensive study that is commensurate with its central role in the narrative structure.  The novel sheds light on the subject of the October uprising in Najaf, where the place revolves around the city, which represents a cultural and religious center. Therefore, studying the place in Hamid Al-Harizi's novel "Volcano" is necessary because it presents a vivid picture of the suffering and hope experienced by the protesters during that period, as well as showing the human dimension of the issues raised and highlighting the importance of the place in shaping the national identity of individuals and societies.

We relied on the analytical descriptive approach that can deconstruct the deep layers of meanings and connotations inherent in the place.

The results of the study reached by the researchers showed that the place constitutes an important element that contributes to creating excitement and suspense in the novel structure, and its ability to embrace unexpected events motivates the reader to continue exploring the events