Middle Eastern Literatures

Scope & Guideline

Celebrating the Depth and Diversity of Middle Eastern Literatures

Introduction

Welcome to the Middle Eastern Literatures information hub, where our guidelines provide a wealth of knowledge about the journal’s focus and academic contributions. This page includes an extensive look at the aims and scope of Middle Eastern Literatures, highlighting trending and emerging areas of study. We also examine declining topics to offer insight into academic interest shifts. Our curated list of highly cited topics and recent publications is part of our effort to guide scholars, using these guidelines to stay ahead in their research endeavors.
LanguageEnglish
ISSN1475-262x
PublisherROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTD
Support Open AccessNo
CountryUnited Kingdom
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 2009 to 2024
AbbreviationMIDDLE EAST LIT / Middle East. Lit.
Frequency3 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
Address2-4 PARK SQUARE, MILTON PARK, ABINGDON OX14 4RN, OXON, ENGLAND

Aims and Scopes

The journal 'Middle Eastern Literatures' aims to explore and analyze the diverse literary expressions emerging from the Middle East, engaging with both historical and contemporary contexts. It fosters a multidisciplinary approach that encompasses various genres, languages, and cultural discourses.
  1. Exploration of Cultural Identity:
    The journal emphasizes the exploration of cultural identities, particularly in relation to themes like exile, diaspora, and national struggles, as seen in the works of Palestinian and other Middle Eastern authors.
  2. Intertextuality and Literary Traditions:
    There is a consistent focus on intertextuality within and across literary traditions, such as Arabic and Persian literatures, highlighting how historical texts inform contemporary writings.
  3. Critical Engagement with Modernity:
    The journal engages critically with themes of modernity, postmodernity, and their implications on literature, examining how these concepts affect narrative structures and literary forms.
  4. Women's Voices and Gender Studies:
    A core area of interest is the representation of women and gender in literature, exploring how female authors and characters navigate societal norms and express agency through their narratives.
  5. Ecocriticism and Environmental Themes:
    The journal is increasingly incorporating ecocritical perspectives, analyzing how literature reflects and responds to environmental issues, particularly in the context of climate change and urbanization.
  6. Political and Aesthetic Critique:
    There is a significant focus on literature as a form of political critique, examining how authors respond to authoritarianism, war, and social injustice through their artistic practices.
The journal 'Middle Eastern Literatures' is currently experiencing a surge in interest in several emerging themes that reflect contemporary societal issues and literary innovations.
  1. Diaspora and Exile Narratives:
    Recent publications increasingly focus on diaspora and exile, exploring how Middle Eastern authors articulate their experiences of displacement and the complexities of identity in a globalized world.
  2. Climate Fiction and Ecocriticism:
    The integration of climate fiction within the journal's scope highlights an emerging interest in how literature addresses environmental crises, particularly in the context of the Middle East's ecological challenges.
  3. Intersectionality in Gender Studies:
    There is a growing trend towards intersectional analyses of gender, examining how race, class, and sexuality intersect in the literary representations of women and marginalized groups.
  4. Aesthetic Responses to Authoritarianism:
    The journal is increasingly publishing works that critique authoritarian regimes through aesthetic means, reflecting a rising interest in literature as a form of resistance and social commentary.
  5. Translingualism and Cultural Hybridity:
    Emerging themes related to translingualism and cultural hybridity are prevalent, showcasing how writers navigate multiple languages and cultural influences in their works, reflecting the complexities of identity in the modern world.

Declining or Waning

While 'Middle Eastern Literatures' continues to evolve, certain themes have become less prominent in recent publications, reflecting shifts in scholarly interest and societal concerns.
  1. Traditional Literary Forms:
    The exploration of conventional or classical literary forms, such as traditional poetry and narrative structures, appears to be waning as the journal increasingly prioritizes contemporary and experimental approaches.
  2. Historical Narratives:
    There is a noticeable decline in the emphasis on purely historical narratives, with fewer publications focusing solely on historical figures or events without connecting them to current cultural or political issues.
  3. Simplistic Nationalism:
    Discussions centered around simplistic or essentialist notions of nationalism are decreasing, as the journal shifts towards more complex and nuanced understandings of identity that account for transnational and diasporic realities.
  4. Romanticism and Idealism:
    Themes rooted in romanticism or idealistic portrayals of Middle Eastern cultures are becoming less frequent, indicating a move towards more critical and realistic portrayals of social and political issues.

Similar Journals

GEORGIA REVIEW

Discovering the Depths of Literary Expression.
Publisher: UNIV GEORGIAISSN: 0016-8386Frequency: 4 issues/year

Georgia Review is a distinguished literary journal published by the University of Georgia, renowned for its commitment to showcasing a diverse array of creative writing, including poetry, fiction, and essays. With its ISSN number 0016-8386, the journal has fostered a vibrant community of writers and scholars since its inception, offering a platform for emerging and established voices alike. Although the journal's coverage in Scopus was discontinued in 2012, its influence within the literary field remains significant, bolstered by a rich tradition of insightful commentary and cultural critique reflective of contemporary issues. Access to the journal is available through traditional subscription models, making it a valuable resource for researchers, students, and literary enthusiasts aiming to explore the intersections of literature and society. The Georgia Review stands out for its rigorous editorial standards and its role in advancing the appreciation of the literary arts, cementing its importance within the landscape of American literary journals.

Cuadernos de Literatura del Caribe e Hispanoamerica

Connecting Scholars to the Heart of Caribbean Literature
Publisher: UNIV ATLANTICO, FAC CIENCIAS HUMANASISSN: 1794-8290Frequency: 2 issues/year

Cuadernos de Literatura del Caribe e Hispanoamerica is a prestigious academic journal published by UNIV ATLANTICO, FAC CIENCIAS HUMANAS, dedicated to advancing scholarly discourse in the field of Caribbean and Hispanic literature. With a focus on the rich cultural narratives and literary expressions that emerge from this vibrant region, the journal aims to serve as a vital resource for researchers, professionals, and students alike. It primarily publishes original research articles, critical essays, and book reviews, contributing to the understanding of the diverse literary landscapes of the Caribbean and Hispanic world. Although it currently does not offer Open Access, the journal's commitment to quality scholarship is reflected in its comprehensive editorial standards and rigorous peer-review process. Positioned within a global context, it serves as an invaluable platform for interdisciplinary dialogue and research dissemination, fostering a deeper appreciation of the literary heritage and contemporary issues faced by these communities.

RESEARCH IN AFRICAN LITERATURES

Illuminating African Literary Traditions
Publisher: INDIANA UNIV PRESSISSN: 0034-5210Frequency: 4 issues/year

RESEARCH IN AFRICAN LITERATURES is a prestigious peer-reviewed journal published by Indiana University Press, dedicated to the critical exploration of African literary traditions, cultures, and texts. With an ISSN of 0034-5210 and an E-ISSN of 1527-2044, this journal stands out in the field of literature and literary theory, currently ranking in the 80th percentile of its category according to Scopus, making it a significant platform for scholars and researchers alike. Since its establishment, the journal has evolved through converged volumes from 2002 to 2024, consistently fostering innovative discourse and interdisciplinary approaches that illuminate the complexities of African narratives. Although it does not offer open access, the journal is integral for anyone engaged in African studies, providing critical insights that are essential for understanding the broader implications of literature within diverse cultural contexts. The journal's commitment to high standards of scholarship is reflected in its Q3 quartile ranking and its influential contribution to contemporary literary dialogue.

ENGLISH LANGUAGE NOTES

Exploring the Depths of English Literature and Theory
Publisher: UNIV COLORADOISSN: 0013-8282Frequency: 2 issues/year

ENGLISH LANGUAGE NOTES is a premier journal published by the University of Colorado, dedicated to the field of literature and literary theory. With a strong impact in academia, it holds a prestigious Q2 ranking in the 2023 category, emphasizing its importance among scholarly publications. The journal, indexed under ISSN 0013-8282 and E-ISSN 2573-3575, has been a crucial resource since its inception in 1969, featuring converged years from 1969, 1977, and 1982, through to 2024. The editorial board promotes rigorous scholarship and encourages contributions that explore the complexities of the English language across diverse literary contexts. While it does not offer open access, ENGLISH LANGUAGE NOTES remains a vital source for researchers, professionals, and students invested in the sustained exploration of literary arts, evidenced by its strong Scopus ranking in the 79th percentile in its field. For those committed to advancing literary scholarship, this journal serves as an invaluable platform for discussion and dissemination of influential ideas.

Problemy Istoricheskoi Poetiki

Innovating Insights in Literary Theory and Practice
Publisher: PETROZAVODSK STATE UNIVISSN: 1026-9479Frequency: 4 issues/year

Problemy Istoricheskoi Poetiki is a leading academic journal in the field of Literature and Literary Theory, published by PETROZAVODSK STATE UNIVERSITY since 1990. With an impact factor that places it in the Q1 category for 2023, this journal is distinguished for its scholarly contributions, ranked #169 out of 1106 in the Scopus Arts and Humanities category, which positions it in the 84th percentile. Focused on advancing the understanding of historical poetics, the journal encourages rigorous research and offers Open Access to its published works, ensuring the dissemination of knowledge across borders, while fostering collaboration among scholars globally. The editorial board is committed to publishing innovative and insightful articles that address crucial themes in literary history, theory, and interpretation, making it an essential resource for researchers, professionals, and students alike. The journal's harmonious convergence of traditional literary studies with contemporary analytical approaches makes it a vital platform for exploring the dynamics of literature within its historical contexts.

International Journal of Persian Literature

Illuminating the Rich Tapestry of Persian Literature
Publisher: PENN STATE UNIV PRESSISSN: 2376-5739Frequency: 1 issue/year

Welcome to the International Journal of Persian Literature, a premier academic publication dedicated to advancing the field of Persian literary studies. Published by PENN STATE UNIV PRESS, this journal serves as a vital platform for scholars and researchers interested in the rich tapestry of Persian literature and its theoretical underpinnings. With an ISSN of 2376-5739 and E-ISSN 2376-5755, it has established its place within the academic community, earning a category ranking of Q3 in Literature and Literary Theory, as well as a commendable Scopus rank of #481 out of 1106. Spanning the years from 2016 to 2023, the journal invites contributions that explore Persian literary texts, cultural contexts, and theoretical frameworks, fostering enriched dialogue and understanding. Although it does not currently offer Open Access, researchers and students alike are encouraged to engage with its content, which represents a significant contribution to the ongoing scholarship in the field.

British Journal of Middle Eastern Studies

Advancing Critical Perspectives on Middle Eastern Studies
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 1353-0194Frequency: 5 issues/year

Welcome to the British Journal of Middle Eastern Studies, a premier publication within the field of Middle Eastern studies, published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd. Established in 1992, this journal has become a pivotal resource for scholars, researchers, and professionals interested in the dynamic intersections of history, geography, and social sciences. It currently holds an impressive Q1 ranking in History and features in the competitive Q3 quartiles for Earth-Surface Processes and Geography, Planning and Development, underscoring its diverse academic contributions. With a focus on interdisciplinary studies and critical analysis, the journal aims to foster dialogue and enrich understanding of the Middle Eastern region through high-quality research articles. Although not Open Access, the journal ensures rigorous peer-reviewed processes, contributing to its respected stature and relevance in today's scholarly discourse. Join a community of engaged scholars by exploring cutting-edge research that continues to shape the field through its thoughtful insights and comprehensive studies.

RLC-REVUE DE LITTERATURE COMPAREE

Fostering Scholarly Dialogue in Literary Theory
Publisher: DIDIER-ERUDITIONISSN: 0035-1466Frequency: 4 issues/year

RLC-REVUE DE LITTERATURE COMPAREE, published by DIDIER-ERUDITION, is a prominent French journal focused on comparative literature and literary theory, holding an ISSN of 0035-1466. Established in 2001, the journal aims to foster scholarly exchange and critical analysis in the field of literature, examining texts across cultures and disciplines. With its current categorization in the Q4 quartile for literature and literary theory as of 2023 and holding a Scopus rank of #880 out of 1106, RLC remains an accessible resource for researchers, professionals, and students alike. While it operates under a traditional access model, it continuously strives to contribute to the academic discourse within its scope, enhancing the understanding of literary complexities and intercultural exchanges. Based in the heart of Paris, at 6 RUE DE LA SORBONNE, the journal invites contributions that explore innovative perspectives and methodologies in literary studies through its ongoing commitment to scholarly excellence.

ORBIS LITTERARUM

Cultivating a Legacy of Literary Excellence
Publisher: WILEYISSN: 0105-7510Frequency: 6 issues/year

ORBIS LITTERARUM, published by Wiley, is a prestigious journal in the field of Literature and Literary Theory, aiming to foster in-depth scholarly discussions and critical analyses of literary works and their theoretical underpinnings. With its ISSN 0105-7510 and E-ISSN 1600-0730, the journal presents a rich legacy that spans several decades, having converged its publishing efforts from 1943 to 1950 and from 1954 to the present day, thus ensuring a continuity of discourse in the literary field. Recognized for its high quality, ORBIS LITTERARUM is ranked in the Q2 quartile of literature disciplines as per the 2023 metrics, placing it within the top 26% of its category and earning a favorable position in the Scopus Rankings with a percentile of 74 in the arts and humanities. Researchers, professionals, and students alike are encouraged to contribute to this esteemed journal to engage with contemporary literary debates and to influence future scholarship in literature, enhancing understanding of texts across cultures and epochs.

Estudios de Teoria Literaria-Revista Digital-Artes Letras Humanidades

Bridging Global Ideas in Literary Studies
Publisher: UNIV NAC MAR PLATAISSN: 2313-9676Frequency: 2 issues/year

Estudios de Teoria Literaria-Revista Digital-Artes Letras Humanidades is a prominent scholarly journal published by UNIV NAC MAR PLATA in Argentina, dedicated to advancing the fields of Literary Theory, Communication, and Cultural Studies. Established with an Open Access model since 2012, the journal fosters global dissemination of research without financial barriers, encouraging a broader dialogue among scholars, practitioners, and students alike. Notably, it enjoys a presence in Scopus, with various category quartiles indicating its commitment to quality and relevance, particularly with rankings such as Q3 in Literature and Literary Theory. By providing a platform for innovative scholarship, Estudios de Teoria Literaria aims to explore complex theoretical frameworks and cultural discourses, making significant contributions to ongoing debates in the humanities. The journal is published from its base in Mar del Plata, Buenos Aires, and continues to expand its influence in both regional and international academic communities.