Towards the Study of Closure in the Arabic Novel: The Case of the Moroccan Novel

Abstract

This article explores final segments in modern Moroccan novels written in Arabic between 1930 and 2000. Following the model of Marco Kunz’s studies of the Spanish novel, this paper examines ending segments from 126 Moroccan novels. The more relevant techniques of closure are brought out, and a typology is proposed. Traditionally the study of closure in narrative has focused on the outcome and resolution of plot tension and the completion of the overall meaning of the text; however, closure and ending rarely coincide. The analysis of ending devices from these in historical sequence throws into relief some formal trends in the development of the genre in Morocco.