Chapter 2, Identity in Relationships Summary and Analysis

"Asl" is the blood of ancestry, and it is one of the key components of identity for the Awlad 'Ali people. The Awlad 'Ali have never been integrated with the Libyans or Egyptians who are their closest neighbors. Much of their identity comes from the differences they have from these neighboring groups. In large part, the Awlad 'Ali account for these differences by citing asl, their ancestral blood. Although they live in Egypt, they never refer to themselves as Egyptians, although they do refer to themselves as Arabs.

The Awlad 'Ali and other Bedouins prize several virtues above others. These virtues include generosity, fearlessness, courage, and modesty. They have an Honor Code, and these virtues are an essential part of the code. The Bedouins consider themselves to be a manly wife, and they despise groups...