Veiled Women · Question
How does Veiled Women develop the theme of Gender Roles and Patriarchy?
Answer
Veiled Women by Marmaduke Pickthall develops Gender Roles and Patriarchy across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
The narrative examines the strict gender hierarchies in 19th-century Egyptian society, including polygamy, seclusion of women in the harem, and the limited agency women have, while also showing their subtle forms of resistance and solidarity.
The story of Noah's flood and the crow highlights women's historical subordination and desire for agency in marriage, while the household conflict over Yûsuf's marriage reflects patriarchal control.
Murjânah advises the Pasha to beat Fitnah, citing Quranic authority, reinforcing patriarchal control over women.
The Pasha's protective measures and the dowry system reflect patriarchal control over women's lives, even as he claims to act as a father to the orphaned governess.
Evidence in the book
- I
The story of Noah's flood and the crow highlights women's historical subordination and desire for agency in marriage, while the household conflict over Yûsuf's marriage reflects patriarchal control.
- III
Murjânah advises the Pasha to beat Fitnah, citing Quranic authority, reinforcing patriarchal control over women.
- V
The Pasha's protective measures and the dowry system reflect patriarchal control over women's lives, even as he claims to act as a father to the orphaned governess.
- VI
The chapter explores the justification of female seclusion as a sacred duty, the lack of autonomy for women like Gulbeyzah, and the underlying threat of violence (e.g., the plot to lure Barakah).
- VIII
Fitnah's powerlessness to stop the wedding despite her anguish, and her reliance on secretive, indirect means (sorcery) reflect the constraints placed on women in a patriarchal society.
- IX
The wedding ceremony objectifies Barakah as a passive bride, subject to the scrutiny and control of the harem and her husband.
- X
Yûsuf's emotional outburst and the Pasha's decisive handling of the crisis illustrate male authority and the prescribed roles of men as protectors and decision-makers.
- XII
Barakah's vulnerability in public space and Yûsuf's violent reaction upon her return underscore the patriarchal control over women's mobility and behavior.
