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Chapter 1.4: Reading and Culture—Family House

Learning Objectives

In this chapter, you will:

  • Learn about the tradition of the family house in Arabic culture.
  • Read on the topic and reflect on your understanding.

Warm-up

Watch the song and figure out the catch phrase.

Vocabulary and Expressions 2

Read and listen to the following vocabulary and expressions.


English Arabic
to face واجَهَ ‘ يُواجه ‘ مواجَهة

circumstances ظروف
to choose اختار ‘ يختار ‘ اختيار
family members أهل
positive experience تجربة إيجابية
negative experience تجربة سلبية
social atmosphere جو اجتماعي
to provide وفّر ‘ يُوفّر ‘ توفير
safety أمان
family bonding ترابط عائلي
costs تكاليف
privacy خصوصية
disagreement(s) خِلاف ج. خلافات
to interfere تدخّل ‘ يتدخّل ‘ تَدَخُّل
divorce طلاق
independence استقلال
shared house بيت مشترك
headache وجع الرأس
comfort راحة
advantages مميزات
disadvantages عيوب
understanding تفاهُم
kingdom مملكة
temporarily بشكل مؤقت

Activity 16: Marriage in the Arab World

Watch, read, and answer the questions that follow.

الخصوصية في البيوت العربية
Privacy in Arabic Homes

Privacy is a deeply valued cultural trait in Arab and Islamic societies, strongly influencing the design of traditional homes. Unlike many non-Arab, particularly European homes, which are built outward with open spaces between the entrance and the front yard, Arab homes are more introverted and enclosed. These homes are designed to look inward, focusing on the courtyard rather than the street.

The modest nature of Arabic culture necessitates this emphasis on privacy, especially for caregivers, such as women. In terms of interior design, the entrance typically leads to a small hall designated for guests, ensuring they do not need to move around the house. This area allows guests to sit comfortably without needing to venture further, except to access the bathroom.

The architectural styles of homes in the Middle East, particularly in Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, and Palestine, often share similar designs. Traditionally, these homes featured large open areas at the center, uncovered by a ceiling. Upon entering, one would find themselves in this open space, with the actual living quarters situated further inside. This design not only maximizes sunlight and fresh air but also ensures the privacy of the household.

 

Photo by Ronnie Khan on Unsplash

Key Takeaways

  • I can discuss an abstract topic about cultural tradition in the Arab family.
  • I can synthesize resources and reflect on my understanding.

License

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Intermediate Arabic I Copyright © by Ayman Mohamed and Sadam Issa is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License, except where otherwise noted.