Duha English

Duha: Three women in Jerusalem

Duha, tell the story of the lives of its female characters, Tania, Doha, and Mary Therese. The novel delves into their struggles, and the significance of the setting in shaping their experiences. It sheds light on the multifaceted nature of Jerusalem and the importance of preserving its true identity. divided into three sections, the narrator introduces us to three women: . The women play a central role in the story, highlighting their importance and vitality. The narrator's choice of the name "Duha" for the protagonist emphasizes her Palestinian identity and the struggles she faces.

Duha experiences tragedy and displacement, while Mary Therese finds support in a country that cares for her. The novel explores the themes of displacement, movement, and humiliation through the characters' interactions with individuals like Fuad Ajami and Jassim Al-Rubaie, who treat them as commodities.

The setting of the story, particularly Jerusalem, holds great significance. The novel captures the essence of the city, showcasing its multicultural nature and the unity among its diverse inhabitants. The narrator pays attention to intricate details, emphasizing their intimate knowledge and connection to the place.

However, the novel also highlights the distortion and manipulation of the place by the occupier. The occupier's actions, such as changing names and landmarks, serve to undermine the city's identity. The novel exposes these distortions and emphasizes the importance of reclaiming the true essence of the place.

Through the perspectives of Russian writer Gogol and German protagonist Mary Therese, the novel portrays Jerusalem as a city open to all, regardless of their nationality or religious affiliation. This portrayal challenges the notion that the city can be exclusively claimed by any one religious group.