Manifestations of Psychological and Emotional Expression of Women in Folk Literature (Ghina’at al-Alam as a Model): An Literary-Sociological Approach

Abstract

Literature and the arts serve as an authentic mirror reflecting the culture and emotions
of nations. Among these artistic expressions is "Ghnawat al-Alam" (the song of the sign/flag), which is distinguished by its conciseness and profound meaning. This poetic genre has successfully expressed human experiences with depth and sincerity, rendering the experience more realistic despite its reliance on imagination. Furthermore, it has remained vividly present in the collective memory of the people notwithstanding its simplicity, as it encapsulates a shared human experience that transcends the boundaries of both time and space; it captures the individual, their daily struggles, and their innermost feelings.

Moreover, the Ghnawa highlights the vital importance of oral tradition in preserving women’s experiences, safeguarding folk heritage and expressing Libyan identity in a succinct manner. It has served as a living vessel for transmitting people's emotions, experiences, and values from one generation to the next, while preserving the archaic vocabulary of the Libyan dialect and traditional modes of expression regarding social customs and societal constraints. Consequently, the Ghnawa constitutes an integral part of Libyan identity, reinforcing a sense of belonging to both community and history, as it reflects the distinctiveness of the Libyan environment and culture.

It is inextricably linked to society, stemming directly from the Libyan reality, thereby establishing a complementary relationship between the Ghnawa and the community. It has also preserved the image of the woman, who resorted to the Ghnawa in the face of social constraints and tribal codes. The Ghnawa shields women from social accountability, providing them with a medium of expression that harmonizes sincerity of emotion with adherence to customs, allowing them to express themselves without transgressing these boundaries. Through this literary genre, women have managed to convey their feelings by relying on symbolism and allusion. It functions as both a psychological and social tool, enabling women to voice their emotions within a conservative cultural and social framework. At the same time, this genre serves as a sociological document that unveils the nature of social relations, constraints, and mechanisms of adaptation. Thus, it is not merely an artistic expression, but rather a revelation of woman's psychological, social, and cultural reality across time, making it a crucial source for understanding the status and role of women in society.