Women’s Literature in Pre-Revolution Iran

This book delves into the early anthologies of contemporary Persian literature authored by Iranian women, examining their works within the context of Iran’s gender modernization movement during Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi’s reign (1941-1979). It argues that women’s literature from this transitional period reflects the state’s gender policies and the evolving status of women in both public and private spheres. Through a comprehensive analysis of poetry and short stories, the thesis explores how female writers addressed issues such as the unveiling policy, polygamy, arranged marriage, women’s education, social participation, domestic responsibilities, political awakening, and sexuality.