Manifestations of Resistance in the Story Al-Hamamah al-Zahahabiya: Life Lessons for Children

 Al-Hamamah al-Zahahabiya” (2021) is written by the famous Algerian writer Ezzeddin Jalaveji and portrays the historical and social events of the colonial lands that are depicted in an allegorical way to be more effective, especially for children. The charm of this children's story is due to the author's symbolic style to convey moral thoughts and teachings. The present research has investigated the relationship of the story with social and political issues and the manifestations of resistance in it via using a descriptive-analytical method. The research results indicate that the author, examining the history and culture of colonized nations such as Algeria, has portrayed the story's characters as symbols of fighters and occupiers. The author emphasizes the importance of national solidarity in resisting enemies and colonizers. The story reminds us that persistence is the only path to freedom and pride. Collective determination, hope, patience, self-confidence, unwavering resistance to the enemy, and defending the homeland—even to the point of becoming a soldier—are all manifestations of the spirit of resistance and resilience in the face of challenges. These qualities are regarded as the essential pillars of stability, often symbolized as golden doves. Jalawji clearly demonstrates that although the path of struggle may be difficult and demanding, hope and solidarity can always keep the light alive. Moreover, the people of Algeria were ultimately able to overcome the colonialists after many years. This story imparts a lesson of resistance and sacrifice, not only for children but for all generations, encouraging them to cherish their human and cultural values and pass them on to the next generation. The message emphasizes the importance of having a firm belief in humanity's capacity to create change and build a better future, a sentiment that resonates deeply with every reader.
Introduction
Life is always full of challenges and adversities that put people in difficult situations. Meanwhile, the concept of resistance is raised as one of the basic pillars of individual and social survival. It is manifested in different ways; From standing up to personal challenges in people's daily lives to resisting oppression in the social life of human history. Algeria is one of the countries that ended colonialism and gained independence with the sacrifice and resistance of its people. This land, with a rich history, is an outstanding example of resistance and struggle for freedom against foreign domination.
All segments of Algerian society, including writers, have played a vital role in organizing the resistance and revolution. Now, more than sixty years after the country’s independence, poets and writers strive to preserve and deepen the spirit of resistance, especially among the younger generation. Stories have always played an important role in shaping children’s character and moral values. The story of "Al-Hamamah Al-Dahabiyya" (The Golden Dove), by Algerian writer Ezzeddin Jalawji, serves as a symbolic narrative that contains valuable lessons about courage and the importance of standing firm against pressure. This beautiful and poignant tale from his book "The Golden Chain" reminds readers that standing strong and persevering in the face of adversity to protect what is valuable is not merely a choice but a necessity.
In this story, the dove, symbolizing love and sacrifice, faces a significant challenge when the monkey enters its territory. The monkey, representing oppression and aggression, attempts to force the dove out of the olive tree, which symbolizes the identity and heritage of its ancestors. This tree is not only the home where the dove and its offspring live but also embodies their family history and values. In this situation, the dove defends itself and its young with courage and determination, demonstrating that standing up to oppressive forces can lead to victory. Although victory may not come easily, effort and dedication will bring about positive change.
In this symbolic story, the author aims to inspire the children of Algeria to appreciate and honor the sacrifice of those who gave their lives—the most precious asset of human existence—to drive enemies from their land. It also serves as a message to Palestinian children, encouraging them to confront life's challenges and persist in their efforts to reclaim their rights and values.
Method
The present article seeks to show how the story of the golden dove can act as an educational tool in the education of the future generation and play an important role in the transmission of human and social values. The data required for this research has been collected through textual evidence, analyzes and criticisms of researchers in the field of resistance literature. After collecting the data, by using the descriptive-analytical method, different dimensions of resistance that can help the growth and development of children's personality have been read.
Conclusion
This story deals with the culture of resistance, which is the lifeblood of civilization in oppressed countries, and brings valuable lessons to children, especially Algerian children. By narrating the life of a pigeon who was oppressed by a monkey and driven out of his native land, the author depicts the various manifestations of his resistance. Jalavji teaches this generation that standing up in these ways can lead to liberation from the oppression of bullies: 1- The need for collective effort and determination and the hope of victory with trust and help from God as two complementary elements, 2- Patience and Persistence to gain the opportunity to analyze and plan efficiently, 3- Necessity of self-confidence and intimidation of the enemy by using the right time and tools, 4- Spiritual strengthening and military equipment, 5- No compromise with the enemy. and portraying his crimes and 6- defending the homeland with strong determination and will to the point of being a soldier.
Results
For many years, the country of Algeria has witnessed the bravery of men and women who sacrificed their innocent lives for freedom in an effort to rid the nation of the all-encompassing French colonialism. These sacrifices served as the seeds of the country's historic revolution and kept the spirit of freedom alive in the hearts of its patriotic people.
Ezzeddin Jalavji is one of these patriots. With deep sympathy and solidarity for his own people and other nations, he created the story of the Golden Dove to honor the status and dignity of freedom fighters and to glorify the spirit of resistance against oppressors. Furthermore, he aims to promote and deepen the culture of sustainability among the generation born years after these events. This story has a profound impact on children through its artistic use of allegory. He approached this narrative with a keen eye, tailoring it to the children's generation by using simple and easily understandable symbols to craft the story.