A Memetic Analysis of Supernatural Machinery in Fantasy Epic Hoshruba: The Land and The Tilism

https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17330683

Abstract

This research paper will explore mythical creatures in the fantasy epic the Hoshruba: The Land and The Tilism widely accepted translation of Pakistani writer Musharraf Ali Farooqi in 2009 by applying the Theory of Memetics on the mythical creatures such as tricksters and Sorcerers. Memetics is the theory applied to text analysis. In his 1967 book The Selfish Gene, Richard Dawkins created the term “meme” to refer to a unit that might be used to measure the pace at which ideas spread from generation to generation. This research will explain the portrayal of fairy giants, trickster and Sorcerers in Hoshruba: The Land and The Tilism are merely fantastical elements but also serve as carriers of cultural and social memes. Sorcerers often embody themes of magic, and moral guidance, while giants typically represent strength, power, and sometimes moral ambiguity. By analyzing these creatures through a memetic lens, we can identify the specific cultural narratives and societal values they transmit. Hoshruba: The Land and The Tilism were part of the Adventures of Amir Hamza storyline, which originated at the Mughal Emperor's court in India. The subcontinent saw a rise in the popularity of Dastan e Amir Hamza.  Incidentally, this fantasy epic is basically “battle between Sorcerers and Tricksters” (Farooqi, 2009).

Keywords: Memetic Analysis, Supernatural Machinery, Fantasy Literature, Hoshruba, Tilism (Magical World)