SYMBOLISM AND THE JOURNEY OF TRANSFORMATION IN ‘HOMAY AND HOMAYUN’ : A COGNITIVE AND NARRATIVE ANALYSIS
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Abstract: This study explores the enduring relevance of Khajuye Kermani’s ‘Homay and Homayun’ through the perspective of Alan Palmer’s (2004) “imaginary intellect” framework. The research seeks to examine the construction of the tale’s individuals and the audience’s interaction with the composition through the archetype of voyage, linguistic possibilities, and cultural representations. The imaginary intellect framework employs communal and cognitive principles to clarify how figures within a story cultivate an awareness of forthcoming possibilities. This approach highlights the assimilation of sentiments, the consideration of potential options, and the endeavor for cooperative endeavors. This analysis investigates how the narrator applies allegory to link the mythological realm of the protagonists with overarching ideas of self-exploration, societal duty, and cosmic awareness. The study vividly illustrates that the narrator skillfully integrates symbolism and cultural indicators to shape the protagonist’s persona, which emerges as an outcome of worldwide cognitive and social influences. By presenting narrative clues, the poet urges the audience to actively engage in the account, envision an idealistic tomorrow, and take proper measures to attain it. Keywords: storyline, imaginary intellect, allegory, expedition, self-enhancement Introduction: Throughout human history, storytelling has been interwoven with existence itself. As Barthes affirms, “no civilization has ever been devoid of narratives; they are simply present, akin to life itself” (Barthes, 1982, p. 252). Narratives possess an extraordinary ability to impose structure on reality, which neither nature nor history inherently possesses (Cronon, 1992). Listeners shape their identities through a dynamic interaction of existence, evolution, and longing for inclusion (Yuval-Davis, 2006). As instruments of meaning-making, narratives are innately transformative. Individuals employ the storytelling structure to recollect, dispute, defend, persuade, enthrall, and entertain (Bamberg & McCabe, 1998). Communities utilize narratives to inspire unity and cultivate a sense of shared identity. Moreover, narratives exert political influence, as their societal role—shaped by the interaction of power dynamics in the larger world—is a crucial aspect of narrative theory (Plummer, 1995, p. 85). Khajuye Kermani’s ‘Homay and Homayun’ stands as a distinguished piece within Persian literary heritage. By masterfully employing poetic strategies and an intricate awareness of his audience’s cognitive, emotional, and sociocultural inclinations, Khaju unveils the immense potential of humanity, the aspiration for societal ideals, the value of scholarship, and the necessity of setting meaningful ambitions. Reflecting Hart’s assertion that “every individual is fated for a treasure” (2004), Khaju infuses his entire composition with allegory, elevating the protagonist’s expedition to a metaphysical ............
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Conclusion: The protagonist of ‘Homay and Homayun’, Homay, serves as an allegorical representation of the universal human experience—birth, existence, and mortality. Through the masterful use of archetypal imagery, such as roads, mountains, and seas, Khaju transforms the protagonist’s odyssey into a microcosm of the human existential journey. This epic explores the perpetual human struggle to find meaning, fulfillment, and transcendence. The narrative, by engaging the audience’s imaginative faculties, enhances social and cultural awareness. It simulates real-world experiences, compelling audiences to engage in introspection, contemplation, and emotional resonance. Symbolism acts as the bridge connecting the protagonists with the audience. Readers of ‘Homay and Homayun’ are encouraged to employ their socio-cognitive abilities to trace the narrative’s evolution from fragmentation and discord to cohesion and collective identity. Khaju masterfully guides the audience from a dystopian realm of self-absorption to a utopian vision of interconnectedness. To achieve this, the poet underscores the importance of wisdom, humility, and respect for others. In Persian literary tradition, the beloved is frequently associated with absolute truth, while all other entities are mere reflections of this ultimate reality. Similarly, ‘Homay’ functions as an extension of ‘Homayun’, symbolizing the fundamental interdependence of all things. Khaju’s allegorical style encourages readers to perceive beyond the superficial layers of the narrative, revealing a deeper philosophical meditation on unity, devotion, and the pursuit of enlightenment. By employing the imaginary intellect framework, this research has illustrated how Khajuye Kermani’s ‘Homay and Homayun’ transcends mere poetic storytelling. Instead, it serves as a cognitive and sociocultural mechanism that shapes collective consciousness, fosters empathy, and cultivates a shared vision of an ideal future. The tale’s enduring relevance reaffirms the power of literature to influence thought, inspire action, and enrich human understanding across time and cultures.