Women in Literary Work: An Analysis of Gender Ideology and Power in Sahebjam’s Stoning of Soraya M

Abstract

The aim of this study was to analyze gender ideology and power in Sahebjam’s Stoning of Soraya M. Qualitative descriptive method was used to investigates the relationship of gender ideology and power and how it created power imbalance between men and women in Iranian society. The primary data source for this research was a novel, Stoning of Soraya M by Freidoune Sahebjam, which was first published in September 12, 1990. The novel consisted of 115 pages back to back. Data were analyzed through the lens of Critical Discourse Analysis approach, more specifically, Lazar’s Feminist Critical Discourse Analysis. The findings indicated that five categories of gender ideology were present in the novel. Seven data were found in relation to the primacy of the breadwinner. Nineteen data expressed the belief in gendered separate spheres, 14 data supported the wife/motherhood and feminine self, 21 data described about household utility and 21 data were found in relation to the acceptance of male privilege. The country's laws, including the Constitution, the Civil Code, and the Criminal Code created a complicated legal environment for women. While the Constitution guaranteed equal civil rights for men and women, religious law superseded other laws and were frequently abused by individuals to commit crimes against women.