Gender Inequality in Arabic Textbook: Misrepresentation of Women in Culture and Society

Abstract

The composition of the Al-’Arabiyyatu baina Yadaika (ABY) Arabic language textbook perpetuates gender inequality. This textbook not only constitutes language elements but also incorporates texts and illustrations that depict gender dynamics. This research examines the representation of gender imbalance in the composition of the textbook, including its contents and illustrations, and analyzes the portrayal of gender roles as depicted in the textbook’s examples. The study is founded on data gathered from reviewing, recording, and analyzing the textbook, with consideration given to gender relationships. The focal point of this research analysis is the ABY textbook, tailored for non-native Arabic speakers. The findings of the study reveal that the construction of the Arabic language textbook perpetuates a gender-unbalanced representation in both the text and visual depictions of males and females. This study advocates for the development of language textbooks that promote gender equality and fairness in their social and cultural elements.

Keywords

• gender inequality
• misrepresentation
• arabic textbooks
• culture
• society