Naguib Mahfouz's 'New Cairo' (Al-Qahirah Al-Jadidah) is a poignant and incisive social and political novel set in the 1930s, exploring the disillusionment and moral compromises faced by Egyptian youth. The narrative follows a group of university graduates navigating the complexities of their society, grappling with themes of integrity, ambition, and corruption. Mahfouz masterfully portrays characters like the opportunistic Mahjoub Abdel Dayem and the idealistic Ma'moun Radwan, examining how personal ethics clash with the prevailing social and political climate. This work serves as a powerful commentary on the erosion of revolutionary ideals and the ethical dilemmas confronting individuals in a rapidly changing nation, reflecting the intricate tapestry of pre-revolutionary Egypt.