Sharjah 24: Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, wife of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah and Chairperson of the Supreme Council for Family Affairs in Sharjah, attended an insightful session as part of the "Sharjah Cultural Salon" series, organised by the Cultural Office of the Council.
The session, titled "Reading the History of the Mamluks through the Novel 'Awlad Al Nas,'" featured Egyptian author Dr. Reem Bassiouni and was moderated by Dr. Maryam Al Hashimi. It took place on Tuesday, November 19, at the Al Jawaher Reception and Conference Centre, with the participation of prominent female writers, cultural and historical enthusiasts, and members of the community.
At the start of the session, Her Highness expressed her pleasure in hosting Dr. Bassiouni, praising her as an esteemed Arab cultural figure. She highlighted the author’s detailed portrayal of Egypt’s rich history through her novel, "Awlad Al Nas," which vividly depicts Mamluk society, allowing readers to experience its historical depth and beauty. She noted that the novel illuminated Sufi thought, emphasising mercy, tolerance, and acceptance—key aspects of Islamic history.
Her Highness also stressed the importance of preserving Arab-Islamic identity and values in a rapidly changing world, advising young people to engage with history and learn from the great figures who contributed to societal progress. She called on the youth to uphold and represent this heritage proudly.
The session delved into Dr. Bassiouni's process of writing her trilogy, "Awlad Al Nas," a work that spans over seven hundred pages. She shared insights into balancing academic rigor with creative storytelling, especially when dealing with real historical events and figures. Dr. Bassiouni also discussed the role of women in her work and her dual responsibilities as both an academic and novelist.
Despite her academic background, including a master's degree and doctorate in sociolinguistics from Oxford University, Dr. Bassiouni remains committed to using the Arabic language in her literary and academic work, emphasizing the importance of promoting Arab and Islamic culture in the modern world.
She also spoke about her novel, which won the Naguib Mahfouz Medal for Literature in 2019-2020. The term "Awlad El Nas," she explained, refers to the sons of Mamluks born in Egypt, who, unlike their fathers, were not bound by Mamluk status and instead became free men. The Mamluks, often restricted by stringent laws, were known more for their knowledge and culture than wealth. Dr. Bassiouni’s work blends academic history with creative fiction, correcting historical misconceptions and offering readers a deeper understanding of this influential period in Egyptian history.
For an optimal experience, please
