Displacement, belonging, negotiation and third space in Mai Ghoussoub’s Selected writings, Zena El Khalil’s Beirut I love you, and Naima El Bezaz’s Vinexvrouwen -

Abstract

This thesis examines the works of three postmodern authors: Selected Writings by Mai Ghoussoub’s, Beirut I Love You by Zena El Khalil and Vinexvrouwen (The Suburban Wives) by Naima El Bezaz. Through closely reading and analyzing their texts I show that narration is a tool with which they attempt to transcend their identities and ground themselves. I explore how writing created a Third Space symbolizing a home to all three writers, a space where diversity is appreciated and becomes the norm. The first chapter defines and explores the different definitions of the terms, displacement, belonging, negotiation and Third Space. The second chapter discusses the displacement of Mai Ghoussoub, Zena El Khalil and Naima El Bezaz and the different causes of displacement. The third chapter elaborates on the negotiation and belonging of the three authors. This chapter examines the different negotiation styles of each author and their attempts at belonging. The fourth chapter looks at the Third Space created by Mai Ghoussoub, Zena El Khalil and Naima El Bezaz through writing. This chapter discusses the need for narrative in creating an identity and home. I will attempt to show that the Third Space, instead of being a contested space, can be a source of stability and self expression. The fifth chapter concludes the thesis and finds that Mai Ghoussoub, Zena El Khalil and Naima El Bezaz created an additional space, a Third Space, through writing in which they are not touched by offensive behavior. They anchor themselves in a virtual Third Space and find a home within their texts.