The Role of Women in the Development of Handmade Palm Leaf Crafts in Al-Qasr Village, New Valley (El-Wadi El-Gadid) Governorate

Document Type : Academic research papers

Authors

1 Egypt_ faculty of women _ Ain-Shams University

2 Sociology department, Girls College, Ain Shams University

3 Faculty of Women for Arts, Science & Education- Ain Shams University – Egypt

Abstract

This research is part of a chapter from the master's thesis entitled "The Productive Role of Women: An Anthropological Study in Al-Qasr Village, New Valley". The study aims to explore the role of women in the development of handmade palm leaf crafts in Al-Qasr Village. Methodologically, the study examines certain issues and theoretical concepts such as the Social Change Theory, reproduction, unpaid work, paid work, commodity production for the market, and economic contribution. It relies on the anthropological methodology, local community study methodology, and case study methodology. The study consists of seventeen cases, selected according to specific criteria to diversify the nature of palm leaf crafts production based on the education level and age. The research results indicate that the handmade palm leaf crafts in Al-Qasr Village are distinguished by artistic characteristics that make them unique. They have transformed from the traditional form that preserves the community's identity and heritage into a new form that blends tradition and modernity. The role of women in making some of these crafts has diminished due to modernization attempts, globalization, the interest of girls in higher education, and the influence of certain elements such as the widespread use of plastic and the replacement of some local elements with foreign ones. Women face marketing and financial difficulties, resulting in a weak financial return. The field study revealed that women's production of handmade palm leaf crafts has contributed to their social status.

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Buhūth
Volume 4, Issue 11
Social Sciences and Humanities and languages
November 2024
Pages 26-48

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