NARRATIVE STYLE AND LITERARY TECHNIQUES IN Bidâya wa Nihâya: NAGUIB MAHFOUZ’S MASTERY OF REALISM AND SOCIAL CRITIQUE

Naguib Mahfouz’s Bidâya wa Nihâya (The Beginning and the End) stands as a seminal work in Arabic literature, showcasing his mastery of narrative style and literary techniques. This paper examines the novel’s storytelling techniques, including its use of realism, psychological depth, and intricate character development, to portray the struggles of a middle-class Egyptian family. Mahfouz’s use of omniscient narration, shifting perspectives, and detailed descriptions immerses readers in a world where fate, free will, and societal constraints collide. The study examines Mahfouz’s literary techniques, including his use of symbolism, foreshadowing, and contrast, to enhance the novel’s thematic depth. His ability to intertwine personal dilemmas with broader socio-political realities creates a compelling narrative that reflects the rigid class divisions and gender inequalities of 1930s Egypt. Through naturalistic dialogue and internal monologues, Mahfouz captures the psychological complexity of his characters, making their struggles deeply relatable. Furthermore, the novel’s structure, pacing, and episodic storytelling contribute to its dramatic impact. Mahfouz employs irony and moral ambiguity to challenge readers’ perceptions of right and wrong, illustrating how economic hardship dictates human destinies. His seamless blend of tragedy and social critique reinforces Bidâya wa Nihâya as not only a literary masterpiece but also a profound exploration of the forces shaping individual lives. This paper concludes that Mahfouz’s narrative style and literary techniques are integral to his broader critique of Egyptian society. By employing realism and psychological depth, he crafts a timeless story that remains relevant in contemporary discussions of social mobility, gender roles, and moral dilemmas. KEYWORDS: Bidâya wa Nihâya, class struggle, literary techniques, narrative style, Naguib Mahfouz, psychological depth, realism, social critique