Marriage in Middle Eastern Cultures
Throne of the Crescent Moon by Saladin Ahmed is set in an alternate Middle East during the Golden Age of Islam. One of the main characters named Zamia Badawi is a young girl who is the last member of her nomadic tribe. Although Ahmed does a good job debunking common fantasy stereotypes such as habits of whiteness, there are still some misconceptions that are present in his novel (specifically for women). It is common for women in the middle east to get the marriage talk starting out at a very young age. Many get pressured into marriage and believe their only way to be happy is through a husband. Growing up surrounded by Desi culture and this mindset, I have heard many older women tell me that marriage is the way to success and a good living. It is believed that a husband will shower you with happiness, money and everything else you wish. This same mindset can be seen in Zamia throughout the book. She talks about longing for a husband and a family so she can have kids...