Narrative Collusion and Allegiance Justifying: A Cultural Critical Approach to The Dictator’s Last Night Novel by Yasmina Khadra

Abstract

Yasmina Khadra’s novels adeptly navigate complex themes such as terrorism and revolution, employing a gripping narrative style that skillfully constructs a purposeful, creative storyline. This narrative technique is designed to accentuate the emotional dynamics and psychological transformations experienced by all participants throughout the depicted events. Commonly, Khadra interweaves a romantic subplot within his narratives, artfully blending reality with fiction. His novel, The Dictator’s Last Night, vividly recounts the confrontation faced by Libyan Leader Muammar Gaddafi shortly before his demise. In this portrayal, Khadra draws a subtle yet profound parallel between revolution, portrayed as a fringe act of defiance, and authority, seen as a central, dominant force. This juxtaposition reveals Khadra’s critical stance on revolutions; he views them as inherently unnatural acts that disrupt the transcendent balance of established centrism, regardless of the justification provided by their leaders. By delving into the depths of Gaddafi’s ordeal and the dispositions of the rebels, Khadra exposes the complex layers of loyalty and violent opposition, illustrating how the revolution strayed from its noble intentions towards a path marred by gruesome vengeance and malevolent retribution.