Description
In this groundbreaking debut novel, Youssef Zidan explores the profound transformations of female imagery throughout Arab culture, tracing the evolution of woman from sacred archetype to complex, contested figure. Through lyrical prose and philosophical inquiry, the narrative examines how successive cultural narratives have shaped and reshaped the perception of femininity, challenging the false sanctity imposed by tradition. Rather than diminishing these cultural legacies, Zidan presents the Semitic woman in her full humanity—both sacred and profane—inviting readers to reconsider deeply ingrained assumptions about identity and womanhood. Drawing on the author's extensive expertise in Arab heritage, manuscripts, and Islamic thought, this novel becomes a meditation on self-discovery and the urgent need to redefine what it means to be human in our cultural moment. A powerful work that bridges scholarly rigor with literary artistry, "Shadow of the Serpent" calls for a fundamental reassessment of how we understand women and culture.
Available Editions
paperback
دار الشروق Dar al-Shorouk
Published Nov 14, 2009
135 pages
ISBN: 9789770930755
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Details
First Published
2009
Language
ara
Content Warnings
Content and trigger warnings for ظل الأفعى by يوسف زيدان.