Podcast
Questions and Answers
What is the main reason Mariam has been brought to the gathering?
What is the main reason Mariam has been brought to the gathering?
How does Mariam perceive the appearance of Jalil's wives?
How does Mariam perceive the appearance of Jalil's wives?
What does Khadija inform Mariam about her suitor?
What does Khadija inform Mariam about her suitor?
What does Mariam notice about the women’s demeanor during the conversation?
What does Mariam notice about the women’s demeanor during the conversation?
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What effect does the news of her suitor have on Mariam?
What effect does the news of her suitor have on Mariam?
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Study Notes
Introduction
- Mariam visits Jalil and his three wives, Niloufar’s mother, Afsoon, and two other wives, Khadija and Nargis, at a long, dark brown table
- The wives wear flimsy black scarves around their necks
- Afsoon pours Mariam water and they discuss the weather and Mariam's comfort
Jalil's Wives’ Announcement
- The wives have good news for Mariam: she has a suitor
- The wife, Khadija, is in charge of delivering the news
- The suitor is Rasheed, a Pashtun from Kandahar
- Rasheed is a skilled and respected shoemaker who makes shoes for diplomats and the Presidential family
Details about Rasheed
- Rasheed is a good catch as he owns his house in Kabul and makes sufficient money
- Although Rasheed is older, he is considered the best and safest option for Mariam
- Rasheed is a widower and has lost a son
- The wives justify their decisions by comparing Mariam’s situation with others
Mariam's Response
- Mariam is overwhelmed and distressed by the news
- She does not want to marry Rasheed and pleads with Jalil to intervene
- The wives argue for her to marry Rasheed and move on with her life
- They claim it would be preferable for her to marry a local, a Tajik, but Rasheed is the most suitable option
- They point out the benefits of moving to Kabul and that she might not get a better opportunity than this
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Description
This quiz explores the early encounters of Mariam with Jalil and his wives, focusing on the dynamics of Mariam's life and her suitor's introduction. Discover the characteristics of Rasheed and the implications of his marriage proposal. Engage with the themes of family, culture, and personal struggle as Mariam navigates her complex emotions.