Themes from Northern Sudan

bibliographic database
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Book

Title:	Themes from Northern Sudan
Author:	Shahi, Ahmed Al-
Year:	1986
Pages:	152
Language:	English
City of publisher:	London
Publisher:	Ithaca for the British Society for Middle Eastern Studies
ISBN:	0863720641
Geographic term:	Sudan
Subjects:	Islam society
Abstract:	These essays, which have been published earlier in several periodicals (1969-1986), discuss a wide and connected series of topics concerning the culture and ideology of people in northern Sudan. The main theme describes the central role played by the Sufi orders (with particular reference to the Khatmiyya) and the opposition presented to them both by religious fundamentalists and educated people. Other themes concern the role of local people in economic development, the significance of spirit possession to women and other underprivileged groups, and the emphasis on tribal identity in the diverse and complex society of the north. The concluding essays are on the problems of the educational system in the Middle East and on the social aspects of the Arab house, with special reference to kinship obligations, male/female relationships and hospitality.