essay

Sources of female power in Iran

in the eye of the storm : women in post-revolutionary iranLondon • Published In 1994 • Pages: 151-167, 214-216

By: Friedl, Erika.

Abstract
In this paper, Friedl argues that in spite of women's subordinate position in Iranian society, they are able to derive some power to effect change in their lives and those of others. Following a dialectic logic, Friedl shows how women counter the dominating discourse to access and use power. This power potential of women is discussed in four contexts: household, work, religion and government. By being a super housekeeper, a woman brings prestige to the household, makes family members dependent on her services, and gives her control of household resources. As a wage earner, women have the additional advantage of controlling their own money to assert their priorities. Women can use piety as a manipulative strategy, as well, such as gaining a job promotion. Mothers of martyrs, successful pilgrims, and descendents of the Prophet all carry respect and are a source of potential power. Even in sex-segregated schools, Friedl sees women having more opportunity to express themselves, develop confidence in their knowledge, and practice leadership skills.
Subjects
Normal garb
Labor supply and employment
Gender status
Family relationships
Social control
Sex and marital offenses
General character of religion
culture
Iran
HRAF PubDate
2000
Region
Middle East
Sub Region
Middle East
Document Type
essay
Evaluation
Creator Type
Ethnologist
Document Rating
4: Excellent Secondary Data
5: Excellent Primary Data
Analyst
Ian Skoggard ; 2005
Field Date
1965-1992
Coverage Date
1965-1992
Coverage Place
Iran
Notes
Erika Friedl
Includes bibliographical references
LCCN
93049077
LCSH
Iranians