The Representation of Social Fragmentation and Identity Crisis in Naguib Mahfouz's Midaq Alley

Abstract

The study is an attempt to analyze the issue of identity crisis and social fragmentation of women and men depicted in Midaq Alley. Naguib Mahfouz devotes his writings to convey his real message not only about the suffering and oppression of his people but also about the oppressed and exploited societies in all over the Arab world. In contrast to some studies have found out that women are more adherent to customs, traditions, religion and culture, this novel shows the opposite aspect, the women are more open and influenced by the Western culture even more than men in the Egyptian society. The objective of the study is to show how to deal with these issues such as, identity crisis and social fragmentation that are still relevant and controversial in Egypt. Post Colonialism approach has often looked at the effects of colonialism on cultures, identities, societies, language, behavior, activities of Egyptians, and how those members are affected by the colonialism in Egypt at that time. It is concluded that Naguib Mahfouz successfully addresses the issues of losing identity and social fragmentation of women and men and creating awareness of building a modern and healthy society. He conveys his voice to the higher authorities in the state to tackle the reasons of corruption, isolation and poverty that affected people who have spent their life desperately and losing their identities in Egypt. He succeeds in exposing the evils of society that is frustrated and affected by the British culture to increase people's consciousness in order to live harmoniously and peacefully.