Anniversary of Sheikh Abel- Aziz al-Bishri 'Humorist and Scholar'
Egypt, People, 3/25/2003

One of the most notable sarcastic writers of Egypt, Abdel -Aziz al-Bishri was born in 1886 to a family of religious scholars. His father, Sheikh Saleem al- Bishri assumed twice the position of Grand Sheikh Al-Azhar. Abdel Aziz himself followed the same course of education, at al -Azhar.

As a student, he had predilection for Arabic classics and poetry. He was particularly impressed by the writings of the renowned classical humorist " Al Jahezh," and was influenced by his style.

The literary environment at the time of al-Bishri was pervaded human and sarcastic writing, Joking was a popular practice at the time. This may be attributed to the Egyptian people's feelings of frustration and indignation at the British occupation of their country. Joking and humor was one way of letting steam out of the boiling hearts of people.

Several comic newspapers were in circulation, to which al-Bishri contributed including " Abu Nadhara' and "al-Tankeet wal-Tabkeet, "Joking and blaming."

Personally, al-Bishri was a quick-witted, charming speaker. His sense of humor, light -spirited presence and eloquence were scarcely paralleled.

Al-Bishri's writings

His writings were mainly collections of articles.

Of these are:

Facing the Mirror is a presentation and analysis of some political, literary and social figures.

Digest is a collection of essays on literature, descriptive writing and biographies.

Natural Education was the only work in book form, written by him in 1928.

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