Social Sciences Project Abstract
BIBLE VS. KORAN: THE WOMEN OF FAITH
Presenter:
Rebecca Liu, Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy, 1500 West Sullivan Road, Aurora, IL 60506; rebelulu@imsa.edu
Advisor:
Robert Kiely, Ph.D., History and Social Science, Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy, 1500 West Sullivan Road, Aurora, IL 60506; oldstuff@imsa.edu; 630-907-5977
Abstract:
What began as an exploration of Middle Eastern Ideologies and Arab/Israeli conflicts has evolved into an in depth study of the women in the Bible and the Koran. The first months of research were used to develop an understanding of the various conflicts in the Middle East. However, as the research on these topics continued, I noticed the absence of women in any text. Turning my focus to women, I found that the portrayal of women in books of faith created a foundation for the treatment of women in antiquity and modern life. The complex image of women in the Bible is comprised of strength due to fertility and their methods of manipulation, as well as weakness, because of their physical inferiority to men. The women in the Koran are also commonly illustrated in that manner. Is Western Society still affected by these notions? Are Muslim women still dominated by Mohammed's ideal female role? This inquiry explores the multi-faceted views of women in two different but related religious contexts, and the influences they have on today.