Satire and subversion in Medieval allegories: “Reynard the Fox” and the Maqamat al-Hamadhani

Abstract

Abstract “Reynard the Fox” and the Maqamat al-Hamadhani demonstrate the emergence of satire and subversion as important themes in medieval allegories. The authors of both texts utilized the trickster-protagonist to portray dualism in society—especially right versus wrong. In both stories, the trickster figures have two roles: as protagonists and as villains. Both medieval allegories criticize the hypocrisy of their societies, in which mediocrity was praised and excellence was ignored. “Reynard the Fox” and the Maqamat al-Hamadhani are forms of constructive social criticism that readers desperately need today. An analysis of “Reynard the Fox” and the Maqamat al-Hamadhani contributes to a deeper understanding of the historical and cultural contexts in which these works emerged, as well as of the literary techniques employed to convey their satirical messages. Hopefully, this article will enrich the study of medieval literature by providing valuable insights into the role of satire and subversion in allegorical narratives.