An investigation of the book A Beggar At Damascus Gate By Yasmin Zahran Essay Example

summary, certain observations support the concept of a battle between two cultures and ideologies in the novel. Ryya emphasizes happiness, freedom, independence, and dignity above all else during crucial encounters. Furthermore, the unconventional lives of the husband and wife provide further evidence of conflicting traditions.

The novel examines the couple's frequent separations, which hinder their intimacy from developing. It also delves into their experiences of traveling together and separately. The author adeptly portrays how one partner doubts the other's motives, even without solid proof. To fully understand the novel's analysis of clashing cultures and ideologies, it is crucial to interpret the symbolism of the struggle for independence, freedom, happiness, and resistance against oppression between two countries.

Ryya's interactions with her husband in the novel indicate that her true love lies in Palestine, her homeland. She perceives her country as a peaceful and sacred place that brings happiness. However, it is evident that she faces difficulty in finding happiness while simultaneously maintaining her revolutionary position against Israel's occupation of Palestine.

Ryya’s emotional expression towards her spouse can be most comprehended by someone who has faced oppression and the deprivation of freedom, akin to the experience of Palestinians. Throughout history, Palestine has been referred to as Canaan or the Promised land for the Israelites. In ancient times, the Israelites were enslaved in Egypt and were assured a land overflowing with abundance, symbolized by milk and honey. If a particular group of people have been promised a land, it raises an important question: what happens to the existing inhabitants?

The Palestinians, who previously had no territory, continue to oppose the Israelis who now occupy

their former land. Ryya's emotions towards Alex likely express her plea for help in liberating her country. However, Alex fails to grasp the importance that Ryya attaches to her homeland and its true significance to her. In a romantic relationship, it is expected that partners understand and share each other's perspectives, but Alex's inability to do so causes tension and irritation.

The frustration from annoyance that he felt could have been due to his inability to empathize. A more objective reader would understand that someone like Alex, who is British, may not have personally experienced oppression. This lack of empathy may have caused the downfall of the relationship. In conclusion, the novel A Beggar at Damascus Gate by Yasmin Zahran depicts a woman's struggle for gender equality and highlights how cultural differences between a colonizer and a colonized person can affect their romantic relationship.

The novel illustrates the deep affection between a Palestinian woman and a British man, shedding light on the challenges Palestinians face in their ongoing fight for self-determination and statehood. Additionally, those intrigued by Palestinian culture can gain understanding of the obstacles faced by these people, realizing that matters of love, like Ryya and Alex's relationship, are closely connected to one's culture and beliefs.