Interrogating The Narrative Of Terrorism And Islamophobia: A Study Of Leila Aboulela's The Kindness Of Enemies

Abstract

The paper aims to study and analyse how jihad is systematically assimilated with terror and how the misrepresentation and stereotyping affects Muslims and Arabs, specifically after the 9/11 attacks. In today's globalized world, it becomes crucial to deal with religious and cultural differences and accept these differences to eradicate hate, fear, and racism and live in harmony. Recently, we have seen a rise in acts of terror in the name of jihad, and Muslims worldwide face backlash as the world is becoming more islamophobic than ever before. Hence, it is imperative to highlight and address the difficulties encountered by Muslims and migrants in the western world because of their origins or religion. The novel in question switches between contemporary and historical subplots and is examined by giving prominence to the historical and contextual frame presented. The tale of Imam Shamil helps the reader understand the significance of beliefs in warfare and takes the reader to the times when jihad advocated glory, prestige, and faith. Through this research, an endeavour is made to search into the fundamental beliefs of jihad at that time. However, the contemporary plot sheds light on the contrast between the two periods of time and foreshadows the similarities and differences between the two periods. The research work aims to compare and contrast the ideological stance jihad conveys in a post 9/11 world with its historical meaning as portrayed by Leila Aboulela in the novel The Kindness of Enemies.