Modern Traditionalism: Consanguineous Marriage in Qatar

• In Event: 386 - Regular Session. Sociology of Middle East and Muslim Societies

Abstract

Consanguineous marriage, or matrimony between biological relatives, is commonplace and on the rise in Qatar, an ethnically heterogeneous Middle Eastern country. Previous studies demonstrate that modernization often reduces traditional forms of marriage, such as arranged and consanguineous matrimony. Qatar’s rapid modernization, however, has coincided with increased rates of endogamy. In this article we examine the social processes that shape normative consanguineous marriage formation and progression in Qatar. Based on in-depth interviews (n = 35) with men and women engaged or married to a cousin, we detail the categorical schemas that lead to consanguineous matrimony: reservation, joking, filtering, engagement, and courtship. In describing these social exchanges, we illustrate two key features embedded within them: Their distinct tempo and how participants frame their experiences using discourses of romantic love. Reflecting larger cultural practices and attitudes in Qatar, we find an amalgam of contemporary and conventional that we label modern traditionalism.

Authors

• Geoff Harkness, Grinnell College

• Rana Khaled, Northwestern University-Qatar