Question

In Begum Rokeya Sakhawat's book "Sultana's Dream," we find the following excerpt: "Where are the men?... we shut our men indoors... just as we are kept in the zenana." What do these lines describe?

• A. Double standard imposed by male-dominated society
• B. Comparison of work done by men and women in a male-dominated society
• C. Reversal of roles of Gender
• D. Challenging patriarchy

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

The excerpt from Begum Rokeya Sakhawat's book "Sultana's Dream" highlights an imaginative scenario where men are confined indoors, which is a reversal of traditional gender roles where typically, women are confined to the private spheres or the 'zenana.' In this context:

1. Reversal of roles of Gender: The lines describe a unique setting where societal norms are flipped, and men experience the limitations usually imposed on women. This role reversal is a critical element that challenges traditional patriarchal structures, offering a critique of the gender-related constraints that women face.
2. Exploration of Gender Dynamics: The scenario serves as a satirical reflection on the inequities present in a male-dominated society, where women are traditionally restricted in their movements and roles. 

Thus, the lines effectively underscore the concept of 'Reversal of roles of Gender,' illustrating a thought-provoking perspective on gender dynamics.

Answer 2

The lines from Begum Rokeya Sakhawat’s book "Sultana’s Dream" describe the reversal of gender roles. In the excerpt, the women have taken control and confined the men to their homes, much as women were traditionally confined to the zenana (the women's quarters in traditional homes). This represents a role reversal, where the social order is turned upside down, and women are free to roam while men are confined, challenging the gender norms of that time.

Let's evaluate the other options:

1. Double standard imposed by male-dominated society - While the passage reflects the effects of a male-dominated society, the focus is more on the role reversal rather than the double standard.

2. Comparison of work done by men and women in a male-dominated society - The lines do not directly compare the work of men and women, but rather reverse the societal roles between the genders.

4. Challenging patriarchy - While the passage does reflect a challenge to patriarchy, it does so through the reversal of gender roles, rather than explicitly criticizing patriarchy.

Thus, the correct answer is Option 3: Reversal of roles of Gender.