Shereen El Feki

Overview

Sex and the Citadel by Shereen El Feki is a groundbreaking book that explores the complex and often taboo topic of sexuality in the Arab world. El Feki, a British journalist and academic of Egyptian and Welsh heritage, delves into the intimate lives of individuals living in various Arab countries, including Egypt, Tunisia, and Saudi Arabia. Through extensive interviews and research, she sheds light on the challenges and contradictions faced by individuals navigating sexual norms, gender roles, and personal desires in a conservative society.

Key Points / Ideas

El Feki presents several main arguments and insights throughout the book in order to challenge stereotypes and provide a nuanced understanding of sexuality in the Arab world.

1. The Disconnect Between Public and Private Lives

One of the key arguments put forward by El Feki is the stark contrast between public and private sexual lives in Arab societies. On the surface, conservative values and strict religious interpretations often dominate public discourse and behavior. However, in private settings, such as the family home or private spaces, individuals navigate a complex web of desires and relationships that don't always align with societal expectations.

El Feki supports this argument with numerous examples of individuals who lead double lives, engaging in activities that would be considered taboo or illicit within their communities. These contradictions highlight the tension between personal desires and societal norms.

2. The Impact of Globalization and Technology

El Feki examines how globalization and the spread of technology have influenced sexual attitudes and behaviors in the Arab world. She demonstrates how increased access to information, social media, and communication tools have opened up new avenues for sexual exploration, education, and activism.

The author highlights examples of individuals utilizing online platforms, such as blogs and forums, to anonymously discuss and seek advice about their sexual experiences and frustrations. She also explores the role of satellite television, the internet, and popular culture in shaping attitudes towards sex and relationships.

3. Inequality and Gender Dynamics

In Sex and the Citadel, El Feki delves into the inequalities and power dynamics that shape sexual relationships and attitudes towards women in the Arab world. She explores how social and economic factors influence women's agency and sexual autonomy, highlighting issues such as child marriage, female genital mutilation, and the importance placed on female virginity.

El Feki challenges the notion that Arab women are passive victims, instead providing examples of women who are challenging traditional gender roles and advocating for sexual rights. By highlighting both the restrictions and the agency demonstrated by women in Arab societies, she presents a more complex picture of gender dynamics in relation to sexuality.

4. The Need for Open Dialogue and Education

Throughout the book, El Feki emphasizes the importance of open dialogue and comprehensive sex education as a means of addressing the sexual health and well-being of individuals in the Arab world. She argues that the lack of information and open discussions surrounding sex perpetuates ignorance, stigmatization, and the spread of sexually transmitted infections.

The author advocates for a significant shift in societal attitudes, governmental policies, and educational curricula, highlighting examples of individuals, organizations, and religious figures who are already working towards a more open and inclusive approach to sex education in the region.

Conclusion

Sex and the Citadel is a thought-provoking and eye-opening exploration of sexuality in the Arab world. El Feki challenges stereotypes, provides valuable insights, and captures the complexities of individuals navigating sexual norms and desires within a conservative society. By highlighting the disconnect between public and private lives, the impact of globalization and technology, the inequality faced by women, and the need for open dialogue and education, the author offers a more nuanced understanding of sexuality in the Arab world.

This book is highly recommended for those interested in challenging preconceived notions and expanding their knowledge about sexuality in different cultural contexts. It serves as a vital resource for academics, activists, and individuals seeking a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding sex and relationships in the Arab world. Readers may also find value in exploring similar books on sexuality in other cultural contexts, such as "Girls & Sex" by Peggy Orenstein and "Intimacy and Sexuality in the Age of Shakespeare" by Andrea Zerzan.