A Gramscian Analysis of the Role of the Maw [l\ during Umayyad Rule

Abstract

This study also considers whether it is possible to say that <Umar b. <Abd al-<Az\z’s reforms represent, in Gramscian term, an attempt to stage passive revolution? It further considers how the reforms introduced by Ashras and Na~r b. Sayy[r in his last days may be interpreted in the light of Gramsci’s theory of cultural hegemony. The presence of maw[l\ in all anti- and pro-Umayyad socio-political movements displays all the characteristics of what Grasmci termed contradictory ‘common sense’. The role of Shu<]b\ya is also evaluated with reference to Gramsci’s concept of folklore. Finally this section assesses the maw[l\s’ role in the Umayyad decline through application of Gramsci’s cultural hegemony theory, since this highly influential social theory can shed light on the reality of maw[l\  contributions to the dynasty’s eventual decline.