Through photographs and detailed case histories, Unni Wikan explores the strict segregation of women, the wearing of the "burqa" mask, the elaborate nuptial rituals, and the graceful quality of Oman's social relations.

"Wikan does provide insights into the real position of these secluded and segregated women. . . . All this is interesting and valuable."--Ahdaf Soueif, "Times Literary Supplement"

"The book is detailed, insightful, and . . . engrossing. Anyone interested in the day-to-day triumphs and sorrows of women who live 'behind the veil' will want to read this account."--"Arab Book World"

"Wikan, a fine ethnographer, has an eye for everything that is distinctive about the culture and . . . builds up a wholly convincing picture. Above all, there is a sustained attempt to penetrate the inner lives of these strangely serene people."--Frank H. Stewart, "Wilson Quarterly"

"This book will certainly be of interest to all scholars concerned with sexual identity in the Islamic world."--Henry Munson, "American Anthropologist"

Unni Wikan is professor of social anthropology at the University of Oslo, Norway.