The Employment of Poetry in Political Oratory in al-Andalus

Abstract

An examination of political oratory in al-Andalus reveals that it represented a continuation of the classical Arab rhetorical tradition. Andalusian political speeches were marked by refined literary quality, stylistic diversity, and expressive eloquence that transcended ordinary prose. The incorporation of pre-Islamic, Islamic, Abbasid, and Andalusian poetry functioned as a persuasive rhetorical device strengthening arguments, reviving Arab cultural heritage, and reinforcing the legitimacy of Andalusian political discourse as an extension of Arab-Islamic identity. In this way, Andalusian political oratory served as a bridge between classical Arabic prose and the intellectual spirit of al-Andalus, harmonizing reason and emotion, and merging traditional eloquence with the sophistication of political expression. The poetic integration deepened meaning, inspired enthusiasm, and established a dynamic connection between past and present, transforming Andalusian political rhetoric into a synthesis of authentic Arab expression and renewed civilizational vitality. Through an analytical approach, this study examines the poetic texts embedded within Andalusian political prose to demonstrate how they engage the audience’s intellect and emotions, and how poets and writers employed verse to enhance the persuasive force of their discourse.