THE REPRESENTATION OF AL-ÁNDALUS IN THE WRITING OF JORGE LUIS BORGES: BETWEEN HISTORICAL REALITY AND FICTIONAL LITERATURE

Abstract

This reflective article examines the representations of Al-Andalus in the writings of Jorge Luis Borges, focusing on the analysis of the constituent elements of his short story “La busca de Averroes”. Firstly, emphasis is placed on historical reality through spatial-geographical references, temporal indications, and allusions to real characters. This highlights Borges' theory concerning the boundaries of history, which revisits events from the past. Secondly, the generative elements of fiction are considered, such as rhetoric, symbols, images, and the incorporation of fictional tales within real stories. Consequently, Borges' theory of literary interpretation is examined: the meaning of the text depends not only on the conditions of its production but also on its reception. Finally, the article addresses the following question: Is “La busca de Averroes” a historical account or does it belong to fictional narrative?