The theme of "The Happy Man" by Naguib Mahfouz revolves around the idea of the destructive nature of ambition and the pursuit of wealth and power. The story follows the protagonist, a man named Qassem, who is initially content with his simple life and modest job as a clerk. However, when he becomes envious of his wealthy and successful friend, he succumbs to the lure of ambition and begins to crave material wealth and power.
One detail from the story that supports this theme is when Qassem first meets his friend Hamida after a long separation. Hamida flaunts his riches and success, making Qassem envious and dissatisfied with his own life. This envy leads Qassem to start dreaming of becoming a wealthy and powerful businessman like Hamida, setting him on a path of ambition that ultimately leads to his downfall.
Another detail that supports the theme is when Qassem becomes consumed by his desire for wealth and power, neglecting his family and his own well-being in the process. He becomes obsessed with making money and climbing the social ladder, losing touch with what truly matters in his life. This pursuit of material success ultimately leads to his physical and mental deterioration, ultimately resulting in his demise.
Overall, "The Happy Man" highlights the danger of ambition and the pursuit of wealth at the expense of one's happiness and well-being. It serves as a cautionary tale about the destructive consequences of allowing envy and greed to dictate one's actions.
The short story “The Happy Man” by the Egyptian writer Naguib
Describe the theme of this selection and give details from the selection that support your choice.
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