The Women of the Arabs

The Women of the Arabs, written by Henry Harris Jessup and first published in 1873, provides a historical account of the status of women in Arab society. It examines their conditions during the Jahiliyeh, the early years of Islam, and various religious contexts, including Druze and Nusairiyeh. The book highlights the impact of Christian missionary efforts on female education and welfare, while also addressing cultural attitudes and practices towards women, including the historical misogyny reflected in pre-Islamic Arabia. Notably, it discusses the resilience of women through Arabic poetry and their contributions to society.