Date of Award

Spring 5-18-2024

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

MA English

Department

English

Advisor

Mary Balkun, PhD

Advisor

Muhammad Farooq, PhD

Keywords

Palestine, Subaltern, Syria, Hegemonic, Postcolonialism

Abstract

This paper employs subaltern theory to examine the socio-political landscapes of Palestine and Syria within postcolonial discourse. Drawing from the works of scholars like Gayatri Chakravorty Spivak, Ranajit Guha, and Juan R. Cole, this study uncovers the silenced narratives and marginalized perspectives of the Palestinian and Syrian people. Through a critical analysis of historical, cultural, and political dimensions, the basis of this research explores how subaltern groups in Palestine and Syria navigate structures of power, resistance, and identity formation. The experiences of various subaltern groups, including refugees, women, and ethnic minorities whose voices often remain obscured within dominant discourses are discussed in relation to the texts Minor Detail by Adania Shibli and The Beekeeper of Aleppo by Christy Lefteri. By employing a comparative approach, this paper highlights both the shared struggles and distinct challenges faced by subaltern communities in these two contexts. Furthermore, it interrogates the role of colonial legacies, state violence, and global power dynamics in perpetuating subalternity and marginalization. Through an interdisciplinary methodology that integrates postcolonial theory, feminist perspectives, and decolonial frameworks, this paper contributes to a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding resistance, agency, and solidarity in the Palestinian and Syrian subaltern. Ultimately, this paper advocates for amplifying subaltern voices as a crucial step towards achieving justice, dignity, and emancipation for marginalized communities in Palestine and Syria.

Download

Share

COinS