SOCIAL REALISM IN NAGUIB MAHFOUZ'S AL-HUBB TAHT AL-MATAR(LOVE UNDER THE RAIN)

Naguib Mahfouz’s Al-Ḥubb Taḥt al-Maṭar (Love Under the Rain) exemplifies his mastery of social realism, depicting the socio-political and psychological struggles of mid-20th-century Egypt. This study explores how Mahfouz interweaves personal narratives with broader societal issues, reflecting the anxieties of a generation facing political instability, shifting moral values, and economic challenges. The novel’s characters grapple with existential dilemmas, illustrating the conflict between tradition and modernity. Mahfouz employs symbolic imagery, introspective monologues, and a realistic portrayal of love and relationships to critique societal constraints. Through his characters, he highlights themes of disillusionment, alienation, and the fragility of human aspirations amid an evolving social landscape. The novel serves as a microcosm of Egyptian society, portraying the struggles of individuals seeking meaning and stability in an uncertain world. This research examines how Al-Ḥubb Taḥt al-Maṭar embodies Mahfouz’s signature social realism, portraying the intersection of personal and collective experiences. By analyzing the novel’s themes, narrative techniques, and character development, the study underscores Mahfouz’s ability to offer a profound critique of social realities while maintaining a deeply humanistic perspective. His exploration of love, identity, and societal expectations remains relevant beyond its historical context, reinforcing his legacy as a literary chronicler of Egypt’s evolving social fabric. Keywords: Social Realism, Naguib Mahfouz, Egyptian Society, Political Instability, Alienation, Tradition and Modernity