Muslim Women

Paper Summary:

This paper examines the scope of a Muslim woman's authority and power within the private sphere, drawing significantly from the primary historical account of Emily Ruete. The first part of the paper examines Muslim laws and beliefs regarding marriage, including the issues of age and consent. In the second part, the paper looks at the similarities and differences between Muslim and Christian wedding rites. In the third part, the paper examines the rights, duties and roles of married Muslim women, both during the 19th century as revealed in Ruete's memoirs and compares these duties with Muslim women today.

From the Paper:

"Islamic literature has a rich tradition of poetry inspired by themes of love. However, in the 19th century and in many parts of the Middle East today, the idea of marriage as "the union of two people in love is still the exception rather than the rule." Critics point to the wedding arrangement as an indication that Muslim women are viewed as property. However, Ruete notes that such arrangements happened in Europe as well. Debt-ridden families, for example, married their daughters off to wealthy suitors or to creditors."

More papers on Muslim Women:

• Research Paper # 146818 : "Muslim Women - Coming to America"
• Book Review # 121726 : "Muslim Women in "Price of Honor"
• Essay # 67500 : "The Muslim Woman"

APA Citation:

MLA Citation: