Maqama

Maqama is a traditional Arabic literary form combining storytelling, poetry, and wit, often written as a rhymed prose with embedded verse. It features a clever narrator or protagonist who uses language and humor to entertain and sometimes teach moral lessons. Typically, maqamas consist of short, vivid episodes showcasing characters’ adventures, trickery, or social commentary. They highlight mastery of language, imagery, and rhyme, making them a blend of literature and performance art that reflects cultural values and storytelling traditions in the Arab world.