The Concept of “Domination” According to Max Weber, and its Reflection in Three Plays by Gholām-Hossein Sā'edi: Chub be-dast-hāye Varazil, Behtarin Bābā-ye Donyā and Ā-ye bi Kolāh, Ā-ye bā Kolāh

Document Type : Research/Original/Reqular Article

Authors

1 Associate Professor, Department of Performing Arts and Music, College of Fine Arts, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran

2 Department of Performing Arts, College of Fine Arts, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran

Abstract

Gholām-Hossein Sā'edi is considered one of the most acclaimed authors in contemporary Iranian literature and theater, often regarded as a pillar of Iranian playwriting. A notable feature of his dramatic works is the frequent reference to the conflict between dominant and subordinate social and economic groups. Consequently, many experts and scholars have examined Sā'edi's works based on their political and social themes. A study of these works reveals that, in many instances, this class conflict results in the formation of a type of dominance. This research is a descriptive-analytical study that analyzes the concept of "dominance" (or authority) in three of Sā'edi’s plays: Chub be-dast-hāye Varazil, Behtarin Bābā-ye Donyā and Ā-ye bi Kolāh, Ā-ye bā Kolāh, based on Max Weber's theories. One of the main differences between Weber's views and other theories related to dominance is Weber's more detailed categorization. In fact, Max Weber examines dominance not merely as a one-dimensional concept but as a multifaceted phenomenon comprising three subsets: legal-rational dominance, traditional dominance, and charismatic dominance. The findings of this research indicate that although all three analyzed works relate to the concept of dominance, they present different forms of this concept. Analyzing these works through the lens of Weber's theories on dominance can enhance our understanding of the similarities and differences in these plays and, in addition to aiding in the analysis of character development, tone, and atmosphere in these works, help us better comprehend the lawless world and the roots of social crisis formation depicted in these plays.

Keywords

References

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Iranian Journal for the History of Islamic Civilization
Volume 57, Issue 2
February 2025
Pages 86-111

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History

  • Receive Date: 07 July 2024
  • Revise Date: 17 August 2024
  • Accept Date: 23 December 2024

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