The article discusses Aliya Saidi's exploration of polygamy in 15th-century Cairo, based on Shams al-Din al-Sakhawi's biographical dictionary. While Islamic law permitted a man to have multiple wives, this practice frequently faced resistance from first wives, leading to psychological stress and social consequences. Saidi highlights that instances of polygamous marriages were rare, with many women suffering from mental illness in response to their husbands’ second marriages. Al-Sakhawi's detailed accounts serve as a fascinating lens on marital dynamics and societal norms during the Mamluk period.
While polygamous marriages were permitted under Islamic law, historical evidence suggests they were often met with resistance, leading to scandal and psychological distress.
Saidi emphasizes that in nearly all the cases, a man's attempt at second marriage was met with strong opposition from his first wife, often resulting in divorce.
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