A Comparative Analysis of Two Recreations of Kimia Khatun's Narrative Based on Linda Hutchen's Theory of Adaptation

The exchange of literary texts is both obvious and common, and it is unlikely to find any work entirely free from the influence of others. Numerous theories have explored adaptation and intertextual connections over time, with one of the most recent being Linda Hutcheon's Theory of Adaptation. By challenging the derogatory and negative theories of adaptation and expanding its concept into the three major approaches of change, creation, and perception, Hutchen raises questions that he believes provide analysts with an appropriate analytical framework. These questions are: "What?", "Who?", "Why?", "How?", "Where?" and "Who?" In this article, two works by female authors—"Kimiakhatun" by Saeedeh Quds and "Kimiakhatun, the Roman girl" by Muriel Maufroy—both of which explore the life of Kimia that is a deity associated with the shrine of Rumi and the renowned seventh-century mystic, are analyzed based on Hachen's theory of adaptation. The research results indicate that, based on the questions posed by this theorist, each author has approached the main narrative with their own purpose, attitude, style, and historical and cultural background. These differences, particularly in addressing Hachen's fundamental questions in adaptation theory—What does it mean? Who? Why? How? When? and Where?—clearly demonstrate that the two authors have created distinct and independent adaptations. This study employs a descriptive and analytical methodology based on library sources.
Introduction:
The process of renewal and recreation, common in nature and life, also permeates society and literature. The world of art and literature is a realm of borrowing ideas and concepts, where few works are entirely original or free from the influence of predecessors. This phenomenon highlights the interconnectedness of cultural expressions, where the legacy of past creators continues to inform and inspire new works. In the "intertextual" world, creators are continually influenced by the past while also shaping the future. The mind of a creative poet or writer is often filled with dialogues and expressions drawn from literary traditions. Through a profound understanding of beauty and the use of techniques such as defamiliarization, creative misreading, and deconstruction, they strive to create new works that resonate with contemporary audiences. As Walter Benjamin stated, "Storytelling is always the art of repeating stories."
This paper examines two novels titled "Kimiya Khatoon," authored by Saeedeh Ghods and Muriel Maalouf, which narrate the life of Kimiya, the stepdaughter of the great Persian poet Rumi. The study is framed within Linda Hutcheon's theory of adaptation, which emphasizes the transformative nature of retelling and reinterpreting stories across different cultural and temporal contexts.
Methodology:
This research employs a descriptive and analytical method, based on library resources and textual analysis. The key research questions are:
- What elements from the original text are adapted, and how do they transform into new creations? Does the creativity of the adapter result in the creation of a new work?
- How do the worldview and ideology of the authors influence the adaptation process?
- How is the path of adaptation traversed in both novels, and how do the authors present their adaptations as independent works to the audience?
- What are the temporal and spatial contexts in which these two works are narrated, and can transhistorical and transnational elements be identified?
The study analyzes both texts to reveal the nuances of adaptation and the cultural implications embedded within. By closely examining the narrative techniques and thematic concerns, the research aims to highlight how each author constructs their version of Kimiya's story, reflecting their cultural backgrounds and personal ideologies.
Results and Discussion:
The results indicate that both authors, despite adapting from the same historical figure, employ distinct narrative strategies shaped by their cultural contexts. Saeedeh Qods uses a feminist lens to critique patriarchal norms, portraying Kimiya as a heroine who navigates societal constraints. This perspective enables readers to engage with ongoing issues of gender inequality and the challenges women face in both historical and contemporary contexts. Qods' portrayal of Kimiya as a character with agency challenges traditional narratives that often marginalize female voices, making her story a powerful vehicle for social commentary.
Conversely, Maalouf's adaptation leans toward a fantastical interpretation, emphasizing Kimiya's emotional and spiritual journey rather than her societal struggles. By blending historical elements with imaginative storytelling, Maalouf creates a narrative that resonates with readers on a deeper level, inviting them to explore themes of identity, belonging, and the search for meaning in a complex world. This approach allows her to engage with the historical narrative while simultaneously crafting a story that appeals to contemporary sensibilities.
Both adaptations illustrate how cultural and ideological influences shape narrative choices. Qods's work resonates with readers seeking feminist discourse, while Maalouf's narrative appeals to those drawn to imaginative storytelling. This diversity of voices underscores the richness of adaptation as a literary practice, revealing how stories can evolve and transform to meet the needs of different audiences across time and space.
Conclusion:
In summary, "Kimiya Khatoon" by Saeedeh Qods and "Kimiya Khatoon, the Roman Girl" by Muriel Maalouf exemplify the intricate nature of literary adaptation. Each author reinterprets the same source material through their unique cultural lenses, resulting in distinct narratives that address themes of identity, agency, and social critique. Qods' portrayal of Kimiya highlights the struggles of women in a patriarchal society, emphasizing the importance of female empowerment and representation in literature. In her narrative, Kimiya's voice emerges as a powerful testament to the resilience of women, making her story relevant to contemporary discussions about gender and identity.
On the other hand, Maalouf's fantastical approach invites readers to engage with the emotional and spiritual dimensions of Kimiya's life, prompting reflections on love, loss, and the complexities of human relationships. By intertwining historical and imaginative elements, Maalouf crafts a narrative that transcends cultural boundaries, appealing to a global audience. This approach allows her to explore the universal themes of longing and self-discovery, making Kimiya's story resonate with readers from diverse backgrounds.
These adaptations demonstrate the ongoing relevance of historical narratives in contemporary discourse, inviting readers to reflect on the complexities of human experience. As societies grapple with issues of gender, identity, and cultural heritage, the retelling of stories like that of Kimiya becomes a means of fostering dialogue and understanding. Adaptation, as a creative act, not only honors the past but also reinterprets it for new generations, ensuring that these narratives remain alive and impactful.
Ethical Considerations
This research adheres to ethical principles and does not violate the rights of the original authors. All sources are transparently cited, and care has been taken to avoid plagiarism. The study prioritizes academic integrity, ensuring that the contributions of other scholars and creators are acknowledged appropriately.
Funding
This study was conducted without specific funding, with all expenses covered by personal resources. The independence of the research allows for an unbiased exploration of the subject matter, free from the constraints of external financial influences.
Conflict of Interest
The author declares no conflicts of interest in relation to this research, ensuring that all efforts are grounded in scholarly integrity. The focus remains on the analysis and interpretation of the texts, devoid of any personal or professional biases.