The influence of Sufism on Eric–Emmanuel Schmitt’s work

Abstract

This paper attempts to investigate Eric-Emmanuel Schmitt(1960- ), as a Western dramatist and mystical writer of Eastern traditions through a detailed, qualitative and critical analysis of one of his most important work, Monsieur Ibrahim and the Flowers of Quran . In the play , Sufi framework and Archetypal Theory is used to present plainly and briefly the main concepts of mysticism and, at the same time, to situate mysticism within the play. Here, the author finds that the title character takes on the role of a Sufi master, initiating the protagonist, Moses, into the way of the Sufi and to eventually become his successor. The author concludes that Schmitt is indeed influenced by the master and disciple relationship in the initiation and journey of Sufism.

Keywords: Modern drama, Emmanuel Schmitt, Sufism, Theater, play, Monsieur Ibrahim and the Flowers of the Qur’an