Bedouin Ethnography Exam Review

These flashcards cover key concepts and details from the ethnographic study of Bedouin society, focusing on social structures, beliefs, and practices.

What term do the Bedouins NOT use to disparage the Egyptians as different and inferior?

Stubborn.

What is a typical content of a ghinnawa?

A description of the sorrow felt when a sister married and left to her husband’s camp.

How do Bedouin ideals change as they become more settled and wealthier?

IDEALS remain important or are strengthened; less critical contributions from women harden gender hierarchies.

What does 'not symmetrical' information flow between men’s and women’s worlds mean?

Men were largely excluded from women’s knowledge, while women had indirect access to men’s affairs.

What was the benefit and limitation of the author’s non-directive research approach?

It narrowed her range of informants but deepened her control over conversations.

How are emotions related to vulnerability managed publicly among the Awlad ‘Ali?

Emotions relating to vulnerability are repressed, while anger is publicly expressed.

In Awlad ‘Ali ideology, which three elements go hand-in-hand?

Social status, decision-making power, moral worth.

What is honor closely tied to in Bedouin culture?

Self-mastery and a willingness to own up to mistakes.

How do Awlad ‘Ali marriages reflect social strategies?

They strengthen kinship networks and consolidate resources.

How do the Awlad ‘Ali manage disputes?

By keeping disputes out of court and using tribal discussion and mediation.

Describe property ownership among the Awlad ‘Ali.

Senior male relatives control property and inheritance, reinforcing family hierarchy.

What has shifted in the economic practices of the Awlad ‘Ali in recent decades?

Increased cash economies and market participation, but kinship-based cooperation remains central.

How does Abu-Lughod’s analysis of Awlad ‘Ali behavior differ from Goffman’s model?

She emphasizes cultural and moral logic behind emotion expressions rather than a performance perspective.

What does Lila Abu-Lughod argue about ghinnāwas in relation to ordinary discourse?

Despite their formulaic nature, ghinnāwas can convey genuine feelings distinct from ordinary discourse.

Why do Bedouins express non-virtuous sentiments in poetry?

To show acceptance of norms of modesty while understanding which feelings remain private.

Do actual practices of poetry conform to the ideal of it being private?

No, poetry circulates beyond its original audience as a social strategy.

Which statement would the author likely disagree with about understanding Bedouin society?

That focusing only on women's experiences is unnecessary.

What historical trend affected the Awlad ‘Ali in the 20th century?

Government policies led to a sedentary lifestyle and agriculture without cultural assimilation.

What do the Awlad ‘Ali believe about blood and social bonds?

Social bonds mirror blood bonds, reinforcing stronger kin relationships.

How does Abu-Lughod use ‘sentiment’ in her ethnography?

To contrast it with emotion and affect, signaling it as conventional.

What does the term ‘ideology’ NOT reflect according to Abu-Lughod?

It does not describe actions in the most intimate realms of life.

How do Bedouins express strong feelings like grief?

In a culturally sanctioned way rather than a haphazard manner.

What is NOT true about the concept of 'discourse' in this text?

It is not used to describe a rule-based speaking that restricts expressions against hierarchy.

What key belief supports obedience to the tribal system among Awlad ‘Ali?

Ideals of honor and modesty are deeply-held values promoting self-respect.

What characterizes ghinnawas in terms of imagery?

The limited imagery and formulaic phrases do not limit the messages conveyed.

How does reciting poetry relate to social norms among Bedouins?

It allows subtle expression of disapproval while building alliances.

How is poetry characterized in terms of autonomy by the author?

As a discourse of freedom performed by those viewed as lacking autonomy.