Otherness and the Question of Identity in Mohammad Moufleh's Novel "The Ghost of the Caldonian"

Abstract

This research aims to explore the interplay of history and identity in Mohammad Moufleh's novel "The Ghost of the Caldonian," focusing on how personal and collective histories influence the formation of identity. The narrative centers around protagonist Mohammad Chaaban, who confronts his family legacy as the descendant of Sheikh Mohammad the Exiled, banished to Caledonia during colonial rule. The novel's intricate structure juxtaposes Chaaban’s modern-day identity crisis with historical reflections, revealing how past injustices continue to shape present experiences and perceptions. Through a detailed analysis of the protagonist's journey and the societal implications of his discoveries, this study examines the broader themes of memory, historical silence, and the ongoing impact of colonialism. The research highlights the novel's critique of historical erasure and its portrayal of identity as a dynamic construct, influenced by both historical events and contemporary global forces.