HDS 3058: Gender, Islam and Debates surrounding Female Vocal Nudity in West Africa (Nigeria and Niger)

Instructor: Rahina Muazu

The perception of the female voice in Muslim West Africa as part of her ʿawra (nudity, nakedness), which is determining socially and religiously acceptable gender roles for women, is not only a result of difference in legal opinions (fatwas) but an exercise of social power, the discursive production of female voices as a cultural category and reifying women’s bodies as spaces of religious configuration. Through a gendered approach to voice, this course examines debates surrounding the perception of the ‘female voice’ as part of her ʿawra in two West African Muslim majority countries of Nigeria and Niger. It will analyze Islamic legal positions, Qur’anic verses, and the conversation around the relationship between language (here, voice) and gender. Readings will engage fatwas, fiqh texts, audiovisual materials, and ethnography.
Guest interlocutor, Malama Khadija Gambo Hawaja will visit the class on the last day to speak about her experiences as a female Muslim preacher and a religious leader.  

Students who wish to enroll should send a paragraph to rmuazu@hds.harvard.edu indicating their reasons for interest in the course and any relevant background.  HDS students should apply as soon as possible but no later than Thursday, Jan. 20 and will be notified whether they have been admitted on Friday, Jan. 21.
FAS students should apply by Jan. 18 and will be notified by Jan. 19.