Gender Construction in Malak Hifni Nasif's "Comparing Egyptian and Western Women"

Malak Hifni Nasif’s lecture "Comparisons between Egyptian and Western Women" provides a lens into early 20th century notions of gender roles in a Muslim society. It’s also a fascinating look at Egyptian views of “Western” women, from style to education to behavior to spending habits.  Malak was unapologetic about her belief that all aspects of Western cultural imperialism should be contested. She uses both the Qur’an and Islamic law to argue against cultural norms and for specific standards of behavior and practice, helping introduce students to Islamic feminism. My assignment is designed to increase understanding of gender construction by examining Malak’s idealized standards for how girls and women should behave, and how this particular Egyptian Muslim woman views, contests, and sometimes applauds Western gender roles. Conveniently, there are many issues to which students can relate as they consider gender roles and construction in their own lives.