The Idea of an Essay, Volume 2

67 anomalous position. They were formed in a society far more liberal, if not necessarily freer, than the one they now inhabit. And though Iranian women remain very highly educated by the standards of surrounding countries, the social and professional avenues open to them are often disappointingly narrow. (Bongiorni) Though at first the Iranian Revolution appears to be devastating to all women’s rights initiatives, many onlookers like journalist Bongiorni and author Catherine Sameh agree that the revolution made the women even more passionate today. Sameh writes, “It is in this post-revolutionary period, particularly in the last decade and a half, that women have emerged as key agents of many important changes in the social, political and cultural landscape of Iran” (Sameh 9). The attempts of the 1980s to silence women caused even more energy in the women’s movement, leaving Iran with one of the most charged and dynamic women’s movements in the Islamic world. Many female activists involved have won international recognition (Wright). Along with the constant actions specific to women’s rights, a new school of thought is forming called “Islamic Modernism.” This viewpoint tries to reconcile Islamic faith with modern values, incorporating democracy, civil rights, and equality, and creating a new version of the Islamic faith (Moaddel 2). In addition to agreeing with the need for gender equality, the viewpoint removes Islamic supremacist tendencies and seeks to live at peace with other faiths. If Islamic Modernism becomes popular thought, Iran may return to a state of progress similar to its pre-revolution state. Daniel Pipes, president of the Middle East Forum, who is optimistic about the modernization of Iran, summarizes, “This synthesis would choose among Shari precepts and render Islam compatible with modern values. It would accept gender equality, coexist peacefully with unbelievers, and reject the aspiration of a universal caliphate, among other steps” (Pipes). In conclusion, A Separation effectively leads the viewer to wonder about the current circumstances in Iran and the preceding events that led to the turmoil. A thorough understanding of the White Revolution led by Reza Shah, the Iranian Revolution led by Ayatollah Kohmeini, and the current state of gender roles in Iran, give context to the subtleties of A Separation. Simin’s ambiguous answer