The Presence of the Fantastic Character in Children’s Literature, Kamel Kilani’s Sinbad the Sailor as a Model

Abstract

The marvelous character in Sinbad the Sailor by Kamel Kilani is a prominent figure in Arab children’s literature, creating a vivid sense of enjoyment and imagination in young readers. The story aims to foster children’s initiative, enhance their ability to face challenges, stimulate curiosity, develop creative imagination, and instill important educational values such as dedication, patience, courage, and a strong spirit of adventure. This study adopts a descriptive-analytical approach, carefully examining the concept of marvels in children’s literature and systematically identifying their manifestations in the story. The findings show that the marvelous character successfully combines exciting adventures and entertaining elements while creatively portraying the conflict between good and evil. Its presence is not merely decorative or incidental; rather, it serves as an artistic and educational device, promoting moral refinement, engagement, admiration, and interactive involvement. The study highlights how the marvelous character contributes both to enjoyment and to the child’s cognitive, emotional, and ethical development.