‘Sworn virgins’ as Enhancers of Albanian Patriarchal Society in Contrast to Emerging Roles for Albanian Women
‘Sworn virgins’ as Enhancers of Albanian Patriarchal Society in Contrast to Emerging Roles for Albanian Women
Author(s): Antonia Young, Larenda TwiggSubject(s): Gender Studies, Recent History (1900 till today), Cultural Anthropology / Ethnology, Rural and urban sociology
Published by: Hrvatsko etnološko društvo
Keywords: Albania; Gender; Sworn Virgin; Patriarchy; Women’s Roles; Urban/Rural Division; Kanun;
Summary/Abstract: Northern Albania is known for its patriarchal social system - strict traditional oral laws dictate definitive gender roles. As a ‘sworn virgin’ a woman breaks from societal expectations but also reinforces the traditional culture. The need for the ‘sworn virgin’ may be reduced as changes in society bring acceptance of non-traditional family groups and roles.
Journal: Etnološka tribina : Godišnjak Hrvatskog etnološkog društva
- Issue Year: 39/2009
- Issue No: 32
- Page Range: 117-134
- Page Count: 18
- Language: English