Document Type : Research Paper
Authors
1
Ph D Candidate, Department of Persian Language and Literature, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran.
2
Professor, Department of Persian Language and Literature, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran.
3
Associate Professor, Department of Persian Language and Literature, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran.
4
Associate Professor, Department of Persian Language and Literature, University of Mazandaran, Babolsar, Iran.
10.22108/rpll.2025.145731.2464
Abstract
Michel Foucault developed a new style in the historiography of every social phenomenon using Approaches of genealogy and archaeology of knowledge, and emphasizing the central role of power. He argues that power is not only exclusively in formal structures, but it is dispersed across all social domains, forming a complex network that permeates society and involves individuals from diverse social backgrounds. The tale of "The Old Woman and Sultan Sanjar" from Nizami’s Makhzan ol-Asrar exemplifies a discourse deeply rooted in power relations, and subject to analysis from Foucolt’s views on discourse analysis. This paper, in a descriptive-analytical method, has studied the discourse of power embedded in this tale and identified features of the discourse and analyzed floating signifiers related to the central signifier, which revolves around justice-seeking. It reveals that the discourse of "idealism" predominates, characterized by a political-critical stance against injustice and tyranny. Within this framework, floating signifiers such as the old woman, the suffering of the oppressed, divine justice, and the Day of Judgment are positioned in opposition to signifiers like Sultan Sanjar, indifference, guards, and oppression. These elements collectively construct meaning and reflect the dynamics of power relations. Ultimately, the tale illustrates how power operates not only through domination but also through resistance and contestation, highlighting the ongoing struggle for justice within social structures. This Foucauldian analysis sheds light on the intricate interplay between power, discourse, and social justice in classical Persian literature.
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