The Status of Women in the Middle East

Abstract

The stereotypical Islamic treatment of women in fact predated Islam in the Near East. Restrictions on females in the ancient Middle East in the form of veiling, subordination to men and seclusion existed before Islam developed. The practice of misogyny simply continued with Islam as Muslims accepted the dominant social mores already established. Muhammad made slight improvements to the treatment of women, but not all of his efforts continued after his death. As the Islamic Empire expanded, the pre-existing mores towards women emerged dominant. Faculty Adviser: Tim May