WOMEN UNDER POLYGAMY
the mother of the heir is especially honoured; but the highest respect is shown to all women who have borne children. The mothers direct all the fortunes of the sons. They select their wives. There is, however, free choice for the maidens. A girl can refuse a suitor three times. If she accepts him, he is bound to pay her a suitable marriage settlement. There is little or no courtship, as we understand it in the West. The lover looks at his chosen bride through an aperture in the room.
The marriage celebration is made the occasion for music, dancing, and feasting. Mr. W. S. Landor says that there is also a betrothal ceremony of a somewhat splendid character. Many guests are invited to these protracted festivities. The girl is congratulated by her relations and friends. She is decked in her loveliest garments, her hair adorned, her eyes darkened artificially. Attention is fixed almost wholly upon her; she is the queen of the hour, and little interest is shown in the bridegroom, who appears awkward and bashful.
During Dr. Wills' long stay in Persia, he only heard of one tragedy in conjugal life. Generally speaking, women in the anderuns are good friends one with another, and the trusted confidantes of their husbands and children.[1]
- ↑ "Persia as it Is," Dr. C. J. Wills.
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