The Dramatic Image in Ibn Shuhaid Al-Andalusi’ Risalat Al-Tawābiʻ wa-l-Zawābi’

Abstract

This study investigated the dramatic image in Ibn Shuhaid Al-Andalusi’ Risalat Al-Tawābiʻ wa-l-Zawābi’ as a pictorial phenomenon for the embodiment of the ideas and meanings, drawing the characters and depicting views and positions. It came with an introduction, a preface, three chapters and a conclusion. It focused on the patterns of the dramatic image: the myth as a form of expression and depiction of the critical opinions; the symbol as an active element to draw the ideas, portray characters and embody positions from his enemies; and the mask as a means of disguising and hiding behind fictitious personalities. The writer utilized this to express his views and portray his positions on public life in Andalus of his time. The most important findings are: Ibn Shuhaid employed myth, symbol and mask in a smart and purposeful way that contributed to shaping the artistic structure of the book, highlighting its aesthetic character and embodying ideas and meanings in a persuasive way to arouse interesting imagination in the mind of the recipient.