아랍 세계의 근대화와 아랍어 부흥 운동 = Modernization of the Arab World & Revival Movement of Arabic Language

다국어 초록 (Multilingual Abstract)

This paper explores the intricate relationship between the modernization of the Arab world and the revival movement of the Arabic language from the late 18th century to the early 20th century. The study begins with the transformative impact of Napoleon’s expedition to Egypt in 1798, which triggered a wave of intellectual awakening by introducing European sciences, technology, and enlightenment ideas. Muhammad Ali Pasha, a pivotal reformist figure, institutionalized modernization through translation projects, educational missions to Europe, and the promotion of Arabic over Ottoman Turkish.
The introduction of the printing press in the Arab world further accelerated the diffusion of knowledge. Cities like Cairo, Beirut, and Damascus became publishing hubs, enabling broader access to scientific, literary, and political discourse. Arabic periodicals, novels, and translations flourished creating a foundation for linguistic modernization and national awareness.
A central theme of the paper is the Nahḍah (Arab Renaissance), a movement driven by reformist intellectuals such as al-Tahtawi, al-Bustani, al-Afghani, and Muhammad Abduh. These thinkers advocated a balanced approach: embracing Western advancements while reviving Islamic values and Arabic linguistic heritage. The Nahḍah paved the way for modern Arab nationalism and cultural reforms.
The study also examines colonial linguistic policies. British and French authorities sought to marginalize Arabic through strategies like promoting dialects or enforcing French as the sole instructional language. In response, Arab intellectuals and activists across Egypt, the Levant, and North Africa pushed for the institutionalization and standardization of Arabic in education, law, and government.
Particularly noteworthy is the establishment of language academies, such as the Arabic Language Academy in Cairo (1932), which aimed to coin new Arabic terms in scientific fields and standardize grammar. Despite challenges—including internal linguistic fragmentation and resistance from colonial powers—these efforts laid the groundwork for Arabic’s modernization.
In conclusion, the paper highlights how the revival of the Arabic language was both a cultural necessity and a political act of resistance against colonial domination. Whether through Islam-oriented reformism or secular Arab nationalism, the revival of Arabic language was perceived as a key tool for self-assertion, identity formation, and modernization across the Arab world.