In many societies, divorce is often regarded as a source of shame and carries a heavy stigma. In contrast, Mauritania views divorce as a common occurrence and even an occasion for celebration, signaling a woman’s renewed availability for marriage. For generations, women have come together to feast, sing, and dance at each other’s divorce parties. Today, this tradition is evolving for a new era, incorporating personalized cakes and social media highlights alongside the traditional food and music, creating a vibrant blend of old and new.
https://www.milleworld.com/in-this-tiny-arab-country-divorce-is-a-cause-for-celebration/
Vocabulary Questions:
1. What is “matriarchy”? “Mauritanian women play a prominent role in Saharan society, so much so that it can be seen as a modern-day matriarchy.” Use this term in a sentence.
2. What does the phrase “start anew” mean? “Mauritian women treat the occasion of divorce as an opportunity to start anew, reiterating that there is nothing wrong with separation. ” Use this phase in your own sentence.
3. What does “lineage” mean? “To preserve lineage, alliances, and castes, women were often forced to marry their cousins.” Use this word in your own sentence.
Discussion Questions:
- How is divorce viewed in your country? Is it considered a social stigma in your country?
- Why do you think divorce is higher in some countries than in others?
- What are some common reasons people get divorced?
- What are some positive outcomes that can come from divorce?
- What challenges might someone face after a divorce?