Unholy Matrimony? Feminism, Orientalism, and the Possibility of Double Critique

          This week's reading with Juliet W. Williams was quite interesting. Williams discusses on the topic of sigheh, translating to temporary marriage where there is a contract between man and woman living together and having an exchange of currency and sexual favors. The relationships that fall under the sigheh can range from prostitution to later having a long lasting monogamous marriage. Williams isn’t too fond of the idea of temporary marriage, however, Ali’s (William’s significant other) mother deeply believes in this concept. This is only because Ali’s mother wants his son to learn and develop a lifestyle with Williams, so they can see their hardships before they became more committed. And it is also a way for them to not deprive themselves from sexual interactions. Otherwise, without sigheh, the relationship will be frowned upon if they were to casually move in together.

          What I found very interesting were Williams’ four commonalities between Shiite temporary marriages and U.S. practiced marriages. One comparison to temporary marriages would be how most marriages in the United States end in divorce 50% of the time. With both entering with a prenuptial ideal and having a postnuptial ideal if/when leaving. Another comparison would be that the U.S. has already developed a way of forming marriage as “socially sanctioned prostitution.” Temporary marriages are known for their financial exchanges with sexual favors, just as you would see in the finale of U.S. shows like Who Wants to Marry a Multi-Millionaire and The Bachelor. A third comparison would be the representation and formality of women and children dictated by men. The final comparison is how the U.S. and Iranian government promote a way one should live a life with their significant other. Even though marriage is seen as one’s choice, it is rather influenced by the government more than we can imagine. The line between public and private is crossed. Throughout this read, I found it very appealing and formed a new perspective about unmentioned commonalities of marriage in the United States and Iran, but especially in other countries with similar backgrounds.