An analytical study of the egyptian travel literature to India since 1947 with special reference to works of Ashraf Abul Yazeed

Abstract

This dissertation, titled "AN ANALYTICAL STUDY OF THE EGYPTIAN TRAVEL LITERATURE TO INDIA SINCE 1947 WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO WORKS OF ASHRAF ABUL YAZEED" is structured into an introduction, four main chapters, and a conclusion. The first chapter, "Travel Literature in Egypt" discusses the origins and development of travel literature, travel literature in Egypt, and its aesthetic values. The second chapter examines Egyptian travels to India before 1947 classified into three different periods. The third chapter explores accounts of Egyptian travels to India since 1947, detailing their objectives, the factors that mobilized travel to India post-1947, an analysis of travelogues with a description of travelers, and the impact of these travels on Arabic literature. This chapter also discusses the concept of imagology and the representation of the self and the other, as well as the traveler's general perceptions of India. The fourth chapter delves into the travels of the Egyptian poet and novelist Ashraf Abul Yazeed to India. It is divided into four sections: a biography of Ashraf and his contributions to travel literature, his travels to India, the artistic value of his travelogues, and the influence of his travels on Arabic literature. This research, employing both descriptive-analytical and historical methods, includes a formal and substantive analysis and a brief, objective discussion on the Egyptian travels to India along with highlighting the artistic features and occasionally criticizing the content. It attempts to find out the significant information, historical data, and insights on Indian culture presented in these travel writings, illustrating their role in strengthening cultural relations between India and Egypt and promoting civilizational and cultural exchange.