WOMEN UNDER POLYGAMY
armies to victory. The most passionate of love poems have been written by Persians. Mothers in Persia are greatly honoured, and exert potent sway in the family; and grandmothers are even more venerated.[1] Mr. W. S. Landor, in "Across Coveted Lands," says that women among the Persians have great influence over men, both in political and commercial affairs. He adds that the wives are almost always the intimate friends and counsellors of their husbands. The interests in married life are mutual.
Before examining the marriage customs and social position of Persian women, let us inquire concerning the physical traits of these much-loved and eloquently-lauded houris. Dr. C. J. Wills, who lived for many years among the people of Persia, describes the women as generally dark, with full-moon faces, and fine eyes.[2] Their long hair is plaited, and often stained red, a colour much admired by the Persians, but not by most Orientals. Cosmetics and pigments for the cheeks are used somewhat freely, and the arch of the eyebrows is accentuated.
Mr. W. S. Landor[3] says that the women are of fair height, and rather inclined to stoutness of the figure.
- ↑ "In the Land of the Lion and the Sun," Dr. C. J. Wills.
- ↑ Op. cit.
- ↑ "Across Coveted Lands."
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