English & Literature

In the Guests of the Sheik, what important adjustment did Fernea make?

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In order to live in El Nahra, Elizabeth Fernea had to adjust her clothing, lifestyle, and actions. This was no simple task, as her first adjustment came in the form of wearing the traditional style of dress.... the abaya. She accepted the village's traditions and customs, wore the veil, and learned the language. The women of the village, with whom she built a strong relationship became her teachers. They taught her to cook, be a good wife (according to their traditions), and how to properly wear the veil. Fernea embraced all that they taught her.... she embraced the people, something that enabled her to chronicle the lives of the people, their traditions, their religious beliefs, and gender roles.

Source(s)

Guests of the Sheik: An Ethnography of an Iraqi Village