Studia Litterarum Studia Litterarum 2500-4247 IWL RAS https://doi.org/10.22455/2500-4247-2026-11-2-136-149 Research Article Articles Avetik Isahakyan’s Poem “Abul Ala Maari” and Its Hero Isahakyan Avik V. red@studlit.ru June 25, 2026 2026 January 24, 2026 The article examines Avetik Isahakyan’s philosophical poem “Abul Ala Maari” (1910), which represents a turning point in the poet’s creative development and the evolution of Armenian literature of the early 20th century. Unlike his earlier works, marked by national liberation and lyrical themes, this poem introduces a universal philosophical perspective on human existence, suffering, and resistance to injustice. The figure of the Arab poet-philosopher al-Ma‘arri (973–1057) is interpreted by Isahakyan both as a historical character and as a symbolic embodiment of the author’s own worldview, reflecting exile, tragedy, and spiritual rebellion. The article explores the historical context of the poem’s creation, the parallels between Isahakyan and alMa‘arri, and the broader connections with Armenian and Eastern literary traditions. Particular attention is given to the autobiographical dimension of the poem, in which Isahakyan identifies himself with the “sage of Ma‛arra.” The study concludes that Abul Ala Maari is not only a poetic response to the author’s personal and national experience but also a work of universal significance, comparable to “Book of Lamentations” by Grigor Narekatsi, a brilliant Armenian poet of the Middle Ages. Avetik Isahakyan “Abul Ala Maari ” al-Ma‛arri philosophical poetry symbolism Eastern literature caravan desert Copyright © 2026, IWL RAS 2026 1. 1 Grigorian, K.N. Tvorcheskii put’ Avetika Isaakiana [The Creative Path of Avetik Isahakyan]. Erevan, Aiastan Publ., 1975. 214 p. (In Russ.) 2. 2 Isaakian, A.V. Avetik Isaakian i Rossiia [Avetik Isahakyan and Russia]. Moscow, Sovetskii pisatel’ Publ., 1988. 304 p. (In Russ.)