Pre-Islamic Arabic Poetry: A Thematic Study

Abstract

“Poetry is the Arabs' archive,” as it serves as a reflection of the environment in which its owners lived. It mirrors various psychological aspects and the moral ideals of the Arabs. As a consequence, the themes and forms of pre-Islamic poetry were diverse. Poetry was innate to the Arabs and was rare if someone did not excel in it. Poetry was akin to their soul which was essential for their lives, its significance made it deeply influential. It was esteemed by men, women, thieves, and even the insane. Poets held a high status and played a vital role in building their tribes and making them a unified social unit. They were the protectors of honour, preservers of legacy, and conveyors of news. Pre-Islamic poetry portrayed their eloquence and how they were profoundly affected by it, capturing their aspirations, dreams, and every hue and scene of life. This paper aims to shed light on the characteristics and themes of pre-Islamic poetry as a treasure trove of Bedouin heritage and a testament to the poetic genius of the Arab poets.