LITERARY AESTHETICS IN NIGERIAN ARABIC - ISLAMIC LITERATURE "The Contribution of Sheikh Abdullahi bin Fodi"

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Author

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Department of Arts

ABSTRACT
LITERARY AESTHETICS IN NIGERIAN ARABIC- ISLAMIC LITERATURE: " A case study of Abduullnhi Fodi's contribution" In its introduction, this thesis attempts to mention its main objectives, significance of the study spells out the researcher's methodology and style in treating the topics. In chapter 1, the linguistic meanings of the terms ' curriculum' and 'art' were explained through citing of several definitions, all of which connote aesthetics. The effort of the researcher is to make the materials he intends to present vis-a-vis his aim and objectives very lucid for easy comprehension. In the same chapter discussion is also made on the ways Islam reached Nigeria. In this regard trade relation between North and West Africa is examined likewise the missionary activities of the Sanhaja tribes etc, who propagated islam. The contribution of the rulers of some ancient kingdom such as Ghana, Mali, Songhai and the Sokoto caliphate in the spread of Islam in parts of Nigeria is equally discussed. In chapter II the thesis attempts a brief review of the various definition of literature in both ancient and modern times. It discusses the general connotation of literature. Then it proceeds to highlight the fundamental elements of a literary work. This is followed by a detailed explanation of each of those elements as well as the concept of Arabic - Islamic literature. Therefore, a detailed discussion is made on the areas covered by Islamic literature. A Muslim literary views of the cosmos in its entirety. It discusses nature and all its phenomena, which is perceived from the perspective that Allah's power and might control it. In the same chapter, discussion is made on the peculiar features of Arabic Islamic literature that make it distinct from others and accord it the qualification for being Islamic. At the end of this chapter, two poems composed by Sheik Abdullahi bn Fodio were analysed in line with the above mentioned characteristic features of Arabic-Islamic literature. In chapter III The researcher discusses the status of Arabic Language in Sokoto caliphate right from its establishment in 1808 AD, and also deals with the biography of Sheik Abdullahi bn Fodio from birth in 1706 AD, up to demise in 1829 AD. Chapter IV which is the last chapter, embodies literary study of nine poems composed by Sheik Abudllahi on various themes. The thesis ends by summarizing the findings of the study for the purpose of recapitulation, retention and easy comprehension of the reader