Headscarves and Hymens: Why the Middle East Needs a Sexual Revolution by Mona Eltahawy

Summary

'Headscarves and Hymens' is Mona Eltahawy's fierce and unapologetic call for a sexual revolution in the Middle East, examining the cultural and institutional repression of women. Eltahawy tackles taboo subjects—such as virginity, sexual harassment, and the prevalence of female genital mutilation—with personal anecdotes and the voices of women from across the Arab world. The book is a blend of memoir, journalism, and manifesto, aiming to shatter silences and inspire change.

Life-Changing Lessons

1. Silence empowers patriarchy, and speaking out—despite risk—is the first step toward justice.

2. Widespread systemic change begins with challenging personal and societal taboos, especially those surrounding women's bodies and sexuality.

3. Solidarity among women, regardless of differences in background or belief, is crucial to confronting oppressive cultural norms.

Publishing year and rating

The book was published in: 2015

AI Rating (from 0 to 100): 85

Practical Examples

1. Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) in Egypt

   Eltahawy discusses the prevalence of FGM in Egypt, including her own experience as a survivor, highlighting that despite laws against the practice, cultural norms and lack of enforcement perpetuate it. She describes the physical and emotional trauma associated with the procedure and its supposed justification through religious or cultural purity.

2. Street Harassment in Cairo

   The book recounts Eltahawy’s own brutal experience of sexual assault and harassment in public spaces, specifically during the 2011 Egyptian Revolution. She emphasizes how normalized such harassment is and how it deters women from participating freely in society.

3. The Myth of 'Virginity'

   Eltahawy critiques the obsession with female virginity and hymen intactness in many Middle Eastern cultures, noting how this concept is wielded to control women’s bodies and choices. She shares stories of women who have suffered violence or humiliation due to suspicions or accusations about their purity.

4. Double Standard in Dress Codes

   Eltahawy explores how women are simultaneously policed for wearing too much or too little—whether forced to veil or punished for not veiling. She cites personal and collective examples showing how headscarves can be both a symbol of oppression and personal agency, depending on context and choice.

5. Legal and Structural Discrimination

   The book outlines various legal barriers women face, such as inheritance laws, male guardianship, and lack of protection from domestic violence. Eltahawy provides real-world examples from different Arab countries to show how these laws impact everyday life and perpetuate inequality.

6. Women Resisting Cultural Norms

   Throughout the book, Eltahawy shares powerful stories of women who have defied social expectations, demanding the right to education, work, and political participation. She emphasizes that even small acts of resistance—like removing a headscarf or reporting harassment—can be revolutionary in these societies.

7. Family Pressure and Honor Culture

   Eltahawy details how family reputation is often tied to female behavior, leading to honor-based violence and restrictions. She recounts cases where women have faced severe repercussions for perceived disobedience or nonconformity to accepted gender roles.