THE PURPOSE OF MARRIAGE IN SURAH AL-QASAS AND THE TAMING OF THE SHREW

Abstract

This study aims to examine the purpose of marriage in both The Taming of the Shrew and Surah Al-Qasas through an Islamic lens. By analyzing these texts, it becomes clear that their depictions of marriage reflect the cultural and societal norms present in their respective contexts. In The Taming of the Shrew, marriage is portrayed as primarily serving as a means for women's economic and social development while men hold power within relationships; meanwhile, Surah Al-Qasas presents marriage as a natural outcome resulting from religious devotion alongside mutual respect and kindness without any emphasis on financial or social status. Additionally, marriage in The Taming of The Shrew is based on money and lust, while marriage in Surat al-Qasas is based on religion. Moreover, while The Taming of The Shrew depicts marriages largely being arranged between families with transactional elements involved; Surah Al-Qasas offers up an egalitarian view where couples ultimately make decisions together regarding their union. Overall, this analysis highlights how different societies have varying perspectives on what constitutes successful marriages along with differing roles for women within them depending upon whether they are patriarchal or egalitarian cultures respectively - all themes which are explored throughout Shakespeare's comedies and problem plays.