See, Iran is a country that I have a particular fascination with. I have spent three weeks there back in 2016, and I long to be back at some point. Perhaps after the pandemic is over there would be a chance. In any case, the topic of gender equality in Iran has indeed crossed my mind at some point. After all, people I know ask me about this, and yes, I would say it is easier to travel in Iran as a male than as a female. But nevertheless, it can be done. So given the little that I know about this aspect of Iran, this book is definitely enlightening.
One of the things that I find absolutely fascinating is that this book breaks down the typical stereotype regarding the effects of the Pahlavi dynasty, as well as of the Islamic Revolution of 1979. One would assume that for female empowerment, the changes implemented during the Pahlavi Era would have been beneficial, or at least this is what would be typically assumed in the West. After all, it is during the Pahlavi Era when it was thought that Iran should align more with the West, and therefore things like wearing the veil were prohibited, and coeducational classes were enforced. It turns out however that these regulations weren't helpful to push female empowerment. Conversely, the regulations introduced after the Islamic Revolution such as the mandatory wearing of the veil as well as gender-segregated classes actually contributed to the advancement of female empowerment. One must realise that for a conservative society like Iran, sometimes, radical changes don't work as they are intended, and changes need to be introduced slowly and one at a time.
Overall, I think this book is a cultural treasure trove, and presents a very concise explanation regarding the state of women's rights in Iran. If you have a special interest in this topic, then this book is definitely worth reading. It also helps to scratch more than just the surface and get to know a little bit more about this fascinating country. I give this book 4 out of 5 stars.
See my other book reviews here.
