Exploring Socio-Cultural Realities: A Comparative Study of Zuqâq al-Midaq by Naguib Mahfouz and Jivanar Batat by Birinchi Kumar Barua

Abstract

This paper presents a comparative analysis of the socio-cultural aspects in Zuqâq al-Midaq by Naguib Mahfouz and Jivanar Batat by Birinchi Kumar Barua, two novels that encapsulate the struggles of their respective societies during significant transitional periods. Mahfouz’s Zuqâq al-Midaq explores the urban landscape of Cairo in the 1940s, capturing the tension between tradition and modernity, economic disparity, gender roles, and moral dilemmas. The alley, as a microcosm of Egyptian society, mirrors the larger socio-political challenges faced during British colonial influence. Barua’s Jivanar Batat, on the other hand, reflects the rural Assamese way of life, emphasizing themes of community cohesion, the impact of modernization, and the resilience of traditional values.

Despite their geographical and cultural differences, both novels share significant thematic parallels, such as the conflict between tradition and modern aspirations, socio-economic struggles, and the roles of women within a patriarchal framework. However, while Zuqâq al-Midaq focuses on individual ambition and the personal cost of societal change, Jivanar Batat emphasizes collective identity and the preservation of cultural heritage. By juxtaposing these narratives, this research highlights the universal aspects of societal transformation while shedding light on the unique sociocultural dynamics that shape the identity and struggles of the characters. The study ultimately underscores how literature serves as a reflection of society’s evolving landscape, offering valuable insights into cultural resilience and adaptation.