Question for Discussion 9
1. Write an initial post (maximum 100 words) that makes a concise observation or point on the basis of one or more of the readings.
Readings:
Mahfouz, Miramar (full novel)
A Man in Our House (movie)
Question:
What sectors of society do the different characters residing in the Miramar represent? Do they represent the past or the future? What is the role of gender in post-revolutionary society? How does this portrayal of Egyptian society compare with that of A Man in Our House?
2. Respond to another colleague’s post. Do not simply state that you agree or like the post–it must be a substantive comment (maximum 75 words)
Colleague’s post:
The representation of characters is diverse. On one hand we have Mariana, a older progressive woman who has had multiple husbands and acquired some wealth through her marriages. Then we are introduced Wagdi, a bitter ex-journalist and former Wafdist native of Alexandria. These two are very good friends and represent a middle class. Then we have Zohra Salama, who is hired as a young maid and represents the lower class. Among these characters, we have Sarhan, Mansour, Doreya, and many more. What i found most interesting about Miramar was Mariana condemning Zohra for bringing misfortune to the Miramar. A similar case is found with A man in the house, with how Ibrahim brought misfortune to Mohey’s family.
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Question for Discussion
The characters residing in the Miramar represent a highly diverse community or society. The characters represent village life and urban life since most of their debates are based on a servant girl known as Zohra who has abandoned her village life to go and live in the urban centers. Another character who perspective is different is that of Mariana who has acquired a lot of wealth after being married to multiple husbands in the past (Maḥfūẓ, Mahmoud, El-Kommos, & Rodenbeck, 2016).
(322 words)