Exploring the Depths of Arabic Literature and Translation | Shawkat M. Toorawa

Dive into the fascinating world of Arabic translation and literature with Professor Shawkat M. Toorawa, a distinguished scholar and Professor of Arabic at Yale University. With an impressive academic journey that spans the University of Pennsylvania, Duke University, the University of Mauritius, and Cornell University, Professor Toorawa's expertise encompasses classical and medieval Arabic literature, Qur’anic studies, Indian Ocean studies, and the art of translation. In this insightful discussion, he shares his passion for the literary and writerly culture of Abbasid Baghdad, the complexities of translating the Qur'an, and his philosophical approach to translation. From exploring the significance of the Waqwaq Tree and islands to discussing his works such as the translation of Adonis's "A Time Between Ashes and Roses: Poems," Professor Toorawa offers a deep dive into the nuances of Arabic language and literature. Join us as we uncover the spirituality of translation, the selection process for literary works, and Professor Toorawa's contributions to understanding and preserving Arabic belles-lettres. 0:00 Intro 00:57 Discovering a Love for Arabic 11:30 The Philosophy Behind Translation 15:36 The Intricacies of Language Understanding 18:24 Challenges of Translating the Qur'an 21:02 The Selection Process for Literary Works 24:47 Exploring Spirituality Through Translation 31:40 "A Physician on the Nile": Bridging Cultures 39:00 Preserving Arabic Belles-Lettres 46:29 "A Maiden of Mauritius": Literary Crossroads 50:16 Quick Q&A: Engaging with Professor Toorawa's Insights Professor Shawkat M. Toorawa is a leading figure in the study and translation of Arabic literature. Holding BA, MA, and PhD degrees from the University of Pennsylvania, Professor Toorawa has contributed significantly to the fields of classical and medieval Arabic literature, Qur’anic studies, and translation theory. His scholarly work reflects a deep engagement with the literary culture of Abbasid Baghdad, the poetic intricacies of the Qur'an, and the rich literary traditions of the Indian Ocean region. As a Director of the School of Abbasid Studies and an executive editor of the Library of Arabic Literature, Professor Toorawa plays a pivotal role in advancing the study of Arabic literature and its translation into other languages, fostering a greater understanding and appreciation of this rich literary heritage. Theme music: Peninsular, Tarek Yamani 🔊 https://spoti.fi/47I59ns Hosted by: Aya Nimer 👉   / aonimer   FOLLOW & RATE THE AFIKRA PODCAST: » Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/lb/podcast... » Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5nafoF1... » Anghami: https://play.anghami.com/podcast/1014... THIS SERIES IS PART OF THE AFIKRA PODCAST NETWORK Explore all episodes in this series:    • 🎙️ The afikra Podcast   ABOUT AFIKRA afikra | عفكرة is a movement to convert passive interest in the Arab world to active intellectual curiosity. We aim to collectively reframe the dominant narrative of the region by exploring the histories and cultures of the region – past, present and future – through conversations driven by curiosity. 📍 Local events in 40+ locations worldwide http://afikra.com/chapters 🎧 New podcasts + videos weekly http://afikra.com/podcasts ⚡ Become a member: https://www.afikra.com/membership 🔗 Instagram:   / afikra_   🔗 Facebook:   / afikra.official   🔗 Twitter:   / afikra   #ShawkatMToorawa #ArabicLiterature #Translation #QuranS