THE NATIONAL ANTHEM ORIGIN, SYMBOLISM, AND FUNCTION “MODELS OF ARAB NATIONAL ANTHEMS”‎

Abstract

This research aims to shed light on the beginnings of the formation of the national anthem in the Arab countries, and the function performed by the national anthem. After the emergence of Arab political entities in the last century, the nascent countries were inspired by the Western tradition of having a national anthem for each country. The national anthem has been one of the symbols that the nascent Arab states tried to exploit to enhance the association between the citizens and to create a single identity among the members of the state. It is usually played in official ceremonies and is a sign of state sovereignty. National anthems are classified into three main categories: the first calling for the ruler’s safety, the second referring to the battles fought by the nation, and the third expressing patriotic sentiments. Key words: National Anthem, Identity, Imagined communities, Pan-Arabism.