Axiological Contradictions in the Theatrical Texts of Ali Abdul Nabi Al-Zaidi

Abstract

Abstract

The theatrical works of Ali Abdul-Nabi Al-Zaidi represent a significant cognitive and aesthetic achievement that reflects the values and contradictions of contemporary Iraqi society. This research aims to identify the "Axiological Contradictions in the Theatrical Texts of Ali Abdul-Nabi Al-Zaidi." The study is structured into four chapters: the first chapter outlines the research problem, importance, objectives, scope, and definition of terms. The second chapter presents the theoretical framework and related studies, divided into two sections: the first explores axiology conceptually, while the second investigates axiological contradictions within theatrical texts. The third chapter details the research methodology and procedures, and the fourth chapter presents the findings and conclusions.

The study reveals a profound tension between divine justice and the harsh earthly reality, positioning characters in a state of perpetual protest—not only against human injustice but also confronting the metaphysical realm, holding it responsible for the discrepancy between human creation and suffering. The research concludes that Al-Zaidi's drama does not oppose religion itself, but rather criticizes the exploitation of religious discourse as a tool to justify oppression.

The researcher recommends that playwrights and theatre practitioners utilize the irony revealed by these findings as a dramatic technique to challenge taboos and expose societal realities, rather than resorting to overt didacticism, which undermines the aesthetic power of the text. Furthermore, the study proposes conducting future research on the manifestations of axiology in children's theatre.