The narrative structure in Surah Maryam – an analytical study

Abstract

The Qur’anic narrative style represents one of the most eloquent manifestations of the Qur’an’s miraculous nature. It integrates rhetorical eloquence, moral guidance, and spiritual education. Surah Maryam provides a unique example of this narrative construction, weaving together the stories of several prophets—such as Zakariya, Yahya, Maryam, ‘Isa, Ibrahim, and Musa—into a coherent narrative framework that fulfills the purpose of divine guidance.

This research analyzes the narrative structure in Surah Maryam through a literary-analytical lens, exploring methods of presentation, temporal sequence, semantic transition, and the use of dialogue and description in Qur’anic narration.

The study concludes that the surah presents a unified narrative structure in which temporal scenes intertwine and narrative voices harmonize, reflecting the Qur’anic objectives of mercy, faith, and resurrection. It also highlights the aesthetic balance between event and meaning, as well as between artistic imagery and doctrinal depth.

Keywords: Narrative Structure – Surah Maryam – Qur’anic Stories – Literary Analysis – Aesthetic Expression.