Routledge Handbook on Women in the Middle East

The Routledge Handbook on Women in the Middle East provides an overview of the key historical, social, economic, political, religious, and cultural issues that have shaped the conditions and status of women in the region. It is divided into eleven thematic sections, providing a comprehensive guide to understanding the current and historical contexts of women in the Middle East.

Format: Hardback
Length: 714 pages
Publication date: 30 December 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The Routledge Handbook on Women in the Middle East is a comprehensive resource that delves into the intricate web of historical, social, economic, political, religious, and cultural factors that have shaped the conditions and status of women in the region throughout history. Spanning eleven thematic sections, this invaluable handbook offers a comprehensive guide to understanding the current and historical contexts of women in the Middle East, providing groundbreaking insights into various aspects of their movements.

In the first section, the handbook emphasizes the significance of historical context, encompassing pre-Islamic through post-colonial histories. By examining these historical narratives, scholars gain a deeper understanding of the complex interplay of factors that have influenced women's lives and experiences in the Middle East. This section sheds light on the historical roots of gender inequality, the role of women in society, and the challenges they have faced throughout different periods.

The second section delves into the importance of politics and the state in understanding women in the Middle East. It explores how women have been both marginalized and empowered by political systems, as well as the challenges they face in accessing political power and participating in decision-making processes. The handbook also examines the role of women in political and social movements, highlighting their contributions to social change and their struggles for equality.

Womens roles in the formal and informal economies and education are explored in the third section. It examines how economic opportunities and barriers have impacted women's economic empowerment, employment prospects, and access to education. The handbook also explores the gendered division of labor and the impact of economic policies on women's well-being.

Womens spaces and the creation of publics and counterpublics are examined in the fourth section. It explores how women have navigated the social and cultural norms that have limited their participation in public life, as well as the strategies they have employed to assert their rights and create spaces for themselves. The handbook also examines the role of women in the media, literature, and art, highlighting their contributions to cultural production and their challenges in achieving recognition.

The effects of war, displacement, and other forms of gendered violence are explored in the fifth section. It examines how women have been victims of violence, as well as the strategies they have employed to survive and rebuild their lives. The handbook also explores the impact of war on women's mental health, reproductive rights, and social and economic empowerment.

Women, family, and the state are examined in the sixth section. It explores how gender roles and expectations have shaped women's relationships with their families, husbands, and communities. The handbook also examines the legal and social frameworks that have limited women's rights and opportunities, as well as the challenges women face in accessing legal and social services.

Discourses and practices of religion are explored in the seventh section. It examines how religious beliefs and practices have influenced women's lives and experiences in the Middle East, as well as the challenges they face in reconciling their religious identities with social and cultural norms. The handbook also explores the role of women in religious leadership and the impact of religious institutions on women's rights.

Women and health practices are explored in the eighth section. It examines how women's health is influenced by social, economic, and cultural factors, as well as the challenges they face in accessing healthcare and reproductive rights. The handbook also explores the role of women in healthcare professions and the impact of healthcare policies on women's health.

Bodies and sexualities are explored in the ninth section. It examines how gender norms and expectations have shaped women's bodies and sexual experiences, as well as the challenges they face in asserting their sexual autonomy and bodily integrity. The handbook also explores the role of women in the sex industry and the impact of sexual violence on their lives.

Women and sites of cultural production are explored in the tenth section. It examines how women have been both producers and consumers of cultural goods and services, as well as the challenges they face in achieving recognition and recognition. The handbook also explores the role of women in cultural institutions and the impact of cultural policies on women's rights.

In conclusion, The Routledge Handbook on Women in the Middle East is a groundbreaking resource that provides a comprehensive and interdisciplinary understanding of women's experiences in the Middle East. By examining the historical, social, economic, political, religious, and cultural factors that have shaped women's lives, this handbook offers valuable insights into the complex dynamics of gender inequality and the challenges women face in the region. It is an essential resource for scholars, researchers, and activists working to promote women's rights and gender equality in the Middle East and beyond.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 246 x 174 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781138056602