A Stylistic Analysis of Adaptations of Rumi’s Masnavi for Children and Adolescents at Linguistic, Literary, and Content Levels

Abstract

This study investigates the stylistic characteristics of adaptations of Rumi’s Masnavi for children and adolescents at linguistic, literary, and content levels. As one of the most influential masterpieces of Persian mystical and didactic literature, the Masnavi contains a wide range of narratives, ethical teachings, and symbolic stories that have made it a valuable source for children’s literature. However, the linguistic complexity, historical distance, and multilayered meanings of the original text make direct access difficult for young readers. Consequently, adaptation and rewriting have become essential strategies for introducing the moral, cultural, and literary heritage of the Masnavi to contemporary children and adolescents. Using a descriptive-analytical approach, this study examines selected adaptations in order to identify the stylistic methods employed in transforming classical narratives into age-appropriate literary works. The findings indicate that, at the linguistic level, successful adaptations rely on simplified vocabulary, clear sentence structures, natural dialogue, and the removal of difficult linguistic elements. At the literary level, narrative coherence, effective characterization, vivid imagery, and enhanced storytelling techniques contribute significantly to reader engagement. At the content level, the most frequently emphasized themes include honesty, humility, wisdom, kindness, self-awareness, and moral responsibility. The analysis demonstrates that effective adaptations preserve the central message of the original tales while presenting them in forms compatible with the cognitive, emotional, and cultural needs of young audiences. The study further reveals that the quality of adaptation depends largely on the ability of the writer to balance fidelity to the source text with the expectations and capacities of children and adolescent readers. Overall, successful adaptations function as cultural bridges that maintain the ethical and literary essence of the Masnavi while making it accessible, meaningful, and enjoyable for new generations.