Women In The Wasted Vigil

Nadeem Aslam, author of The Wasted Vigil, crafted a number of noteworthy characters, each possessing an intricate backstory, within a winding and heartbreaking plot spanning decades detailing the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan and its aftermath. However, the most jarring and inspiring characters in the novel are undoubtedly the female roles. Qatrina and Dunia in The Wasted Vigil are two progressive figures, fighting against the preconceived notion of a women’s role in society in defiance of malignant persecution from the Taliban and disapproving conservative standards of society in rural Afghanistan. Muslim women in the novel are not perceivably acquiescent, submissive individuals, which presents a stark contrast to the opinions many share

Some even argue that they do not need Western feminism, that Islam has empowered them enough. An interview of six muslim women conducted by The Guardian details the liberation a range of women have found, all spanning different cultures and backgrounds, through Islam. They’ve claimed that Islam is more egalitarian than western Christian traditions, as those were forged in misogyny of Greek thought, and that the choice to wear a hijab is entirely their own, centered in pride and empowerment (Bunting). The women speak freely and in favor of a beloved Islam which has brought them the greatest gift of all: faith. It’s a harsh contrast to the preconceived notion of a submissive, downplayed role women are believed to be confined in through misinformation in the media. With so many Muslim women activists in the world who feel empowered by their religion, it becomes insulting to believe that a women cannot portray strength and intellect simply due to her faith. Perhaps a real life Qatrina or Dunia, Malala Yousafzai is the strongest contender to this misconception. Yousafzai has completely altered the realm of activism in Islamic societies. Often times, activists holding origin in Islamic countries, sometimes most in need reform, are ignored. Heads are turned and only in extraordinary circumstances have these women, such as Yousafzai, made such a profound, international