Vol. 2009 No. 1 (2009)

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Urban Cairo in Contemporary African Literature: A Qualitative Study on Representation

Hoda Fathy, Zagazig University Faten Soliman, American University in Cairo (AUC) Maha Ismail, American University in Cairo (AUC) Ahmed El-Gamal, Department of Advanced Studies, American University in Cairo (AUC)
DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.18895315
Published: November 12, 2009

Abstract

Urban Cairo in Contemporary African Literature explores how urban life is depicted in Egyptian contemporary literature, focusing on themes such as migration, identity, and cultural integration. A qualitative content analysis approach was employed, examining texts from various genres such as fiction, poetry, and non-fiction. Analysis focused on textual elements including language use, thematic focus, character development, and narrative structure to uncover patterns in representation. The study identified a predominant theme of migration within urban settings, with over 70% of analysed works featuring characters navigating or experiencing displacement from rural areas into Cairo. This finding highlights the significant impact of urbanization on Egyptian society. This qualitative study contributes to existing literature by providing a detailed analysis of how contemporary African writers represent urban Cairo and its inhabitants. It underscores the importance of these literary representations in shaping public perceptions of Egyptian urban culture. Further research could explore intertextual comparisons between works, analyse representation across different genres or time periods, and consider the socio-political contexts influencing these depictions.

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How to Cite

Hoda Fathy, Faten Soliman, Maha Ismail, Ahmed El-Gamal (2009). Urban Cairo in Contemporary African Literature: A Qualitative Study on Representation. Journal of African Musicology, Vol. 2009 No. 1 (2009). https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18895315

Keywords

Cairo (Egypt)African StudiesUrban TheoryCultural StudiesEthnographyPostcolonialismMigration Studies

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Vol. 2009 No. 1 (2009)
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Journal of African Musicology

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