Echoes of Al-Andalus: Unveiling the Arab Influence on Medieval European Troubadour Poetry

Abstract

This study meticulously examines the influence of Arab literary traditions on the troubadour poetry of medieval Europe, particularly within the regions of Occitania and Southern France. Employing a Comparative Cultural Analysis, the research highlights the thematic and stylistic intersections between these two distinct yet interconnected literary traditions. Central to the findings is the profound impact of Arab poetry's thematic depth, stylistic innovations, and conceptual contributions on the evolution of troubadour poetry. The analysis, enriched by the scholarly insights of Maria Rosa Menocal and the poetic compilations of Abdullah Al-Udhari, underscores the shared motifs of love, longing, and human experience, illustrating a transcultural literary kinship. Key texts and scholarly contributions illuminate the nuanced ways Arab poetic forms and emotional expressiveness have permeated and enriched European troubadour poetry. This paper addresses scholarly debates surrounding the recognition of Arab influences, advocating for a broader acknowledgment of this cultural confluence within literary history. The findings advocate for an inclusive approach to literary studies, recognizing the diversity of influences that shape artistic expressions. Ultimately, this research not only sheds light on the Arab contributions to European literary traditions but also affirms the role of poetry in bridging cultural divides, enriching the interconnected narrative of the medieval Mediterranean world.