Wives and Work: Islamic Law and Ethics Before Modernity By Marion Holmes Katz

Wives and Work explores the historical perspectives of women’s roles in Islamic societies, particularly focusing on labor, marriage, and social expectations before modern times. Marion Holmes Katz examines classical legal texts and interpretations to uncover how women’s economic and social participation was understood.

The book challenges common assumptions and provides a nuanced, historically grounded perspective on gender roles within Islamic law. It is an insightful read for those interested in history, gender studies, and religious law.