REHUMANIZING RESISTANCE: HUMAN METAPHORS IN MAHMOUD DARWISH'S SYAJARAH AL-ZAITŪN AL-SĀNIYAH FROM A COGNITIVE SEMANTIC PERSPECTIVE

Authors

  • Kisti Arilla UIN Sunan Kalijaga, Indonesia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.15575/hijai.v9i2.56081

Keywords:

human metaphor, cognitive semantics, mahmoud darwish, arabic poetry

Abstract

Background: In Palestinian literature, the olive tree symbolizes identity, memory, and resistance. However, the role of human metaphors as a cognitive strategy of rehumanization in Mahmoud Darwish's Syajarah al-Zaitūn al-Sāniyah remains underexplored..

Purpose: This study investigates how human metaphors construct rehumanization through a cognitive semantic perspective.

Method: Using a descriptive qualitative approach, this study analyzes metaphorical expressions in the poem based on Michael C. Haley's metaphor hierarchy through cognitive mapping and thematic interpretation.

Results: Seven human metaphors were identified, portraying the olive tree as an entity with emotional, social, ethical, and moral agency. These metaphors form a coherent cognitive structure that represents steadfastness, historical legitimacy, and dignified resistance against colonial dehumanization

Conclusion: Human metaphors function not merely as literary devices but as a cognitive strategy of rehumanization, contributing to cognitive semantic studies and modern Arabic resistance literature.

Keywords: Human Metaphor, Syajarah al-Zaitūn al-Sāniyah, Mahmoud Darwish, cognitive semantics, Rehumanization.

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Published

2026-08-03

How to Cite

Arilla, K. (2026). REHUMANIZING RESISTANCE: HUMAN METAPHORS IN MAHMOUD DARWISH’S SYAJARAH AL-ZAITŪN AL-SĀNIYAH FROM A COGNITIVE SEMANTIC PERSPECTIVE. Hijai - Journal on Arabic Language and Literature, 9(2), 165–173. https://doi.org/10.15575/hijai.v9i2.56081

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