"Sultana's Dream," written by Begum Rokeya (also known as Rokeya Sahkawat Hossain), is a science fiction short story that was first published in The Indian Ladies Magazine in 1905. It depicts a feminist utopia in which the practice of "purdah" is inverted, such that men are secluded from the broader society of women and are unable to participate in politics, religion, or the professional sphere. The story was originally published in English and gained widespread notoriety after its publication, becoming a germinal text for women's liberation and feminist thinking in South Asia. The text is often praised for its use of science-fiction themes and imagery, as it would be almost half a...
Join Now to View Premium Content
GradeSaver provides access to 2368 study guide PDFs and quizzes, 11018 literature essays, 2791 sample college application essays, 926 lesson plans, and ad-free surfing in this premium content, “Members Only” section of the site! Membership includes a 10% discount on all editing orders.