Family in contemporary Egypt

This book provides the first in-depth and comprehensive analysis in English of the emotional relationship and social roles of family groups in Egypt. It is the view of an outsider who, however, has a thorough understanding of Egyptian society having lived and worked in the Middle East for fifteen years. The main focus of this study is on lower- and middle-class urbanites and their adjustments to the contemporary conditions of cities as Egypt has become highly urbanised during the last decade. The great social cleavage in Egypt in terms of style of life, expectations and opportunities comes between the lower and middle urban classes. Not only are family relationships discussed but also other influences on them. Marriage, divorce and family solidarity are thoroughly examined. While Christians invariably marry for life, Muslims can easily obtain a divorce. Vested interests of the family often dominate marriage decisions more than individual needs. While marriage to relatives is considered desirable to consolidate family solidarity, marriage to strangers can be more advantageous. The family as a group has remained strong, reinforcing traditional values in the face of stresses caused by