Beyond Harem's Doors: A Glimpse into the Life of Princess Zaynab Hanim

Document Type : Original Article

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Guidance Department, Faculty of Tourism and Hotel Management, Helwan University, Cairo, Egypt

Abstract

Based on archival sources and contemporary ones, this paper explores the various and rather multi-dimensional facets of women's lives inside the Harem institution in Nineteenth century Egypt. It offers new insights to understand women's real place and status within such institution. Through delving into the life of one of its inhabitants (Princess Zaynab Hanim daughter of Muhammad Ali Pasha), the paper shatters some of those wide- held misconceptions closely associated with the Harem institution. Equally important, it mirrors women's unfailing quest for their rights and fierce strife to have their own choices that spring out of their free will. It also reveals that Harem's women were still able to establish well-defined identities and to enjoy a high degree of financial autonomy and social activism.

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