Hierarchy of Needs in Najib Mahfuzd’s Short Story Shahrazad: A Study of Abraham Maslow’s Humanistic Psychological Theory

This study explores the psychological dynamics of Shahrazad, the main character in Najib Mahfouzd’s short story Shahrazad, through the lens of Abraham Maslow’s hierarchy of needs. Utilizing a qualitative descriptive method rooted in literary psychology, the research examines textual units of dialogue and narrative that reflect the character’s personal fulfillment. Data were gathered using the listening and note-taking technique, followed by manual codification and textual interpretation. The findings reveal that Shahrazad successfully met all five levels of Maslow’s hierarchy in an ideal manner. Her basic physiological and safety needs were secured by stable access to food through her work and financial stability from pension benefits. Her need for belonging was fulfilled through a harmonious marriage, whereas her esteem needs were met by her resolute stance on maintaining her dignity within society. Ultimately, Shahrazad reached complete self actualization, evidenced by her noble demeanor, her resilience when confronting life's hardships, and a profound spiritual maturity marked by her unwavering faith in God