| ID | 145460 |
| Title Proper | Sexualised objects and the embodiment of honour |
| Other Title Information | rape in Pakistani films |
| Language | ENG |
| Author | Ahmad, Sadaf |
| Summary / Abstract (Note) | A number of popular Pakistani films feature rapes and attempted rapes, supporting a rape culture that needs to be problematised. I analyse these films and demonstrate that this gendered form of violence serves multiple functions, providing the audience with gratuitous entertainment, developing the narrative and/or punishing women. These functions, which are by no means unique to Pakistani film, incite, excuse and normalise sexual aggression, so supporting a strong rape culture. I also draw attention to more culturally specific honour-based ideologies in these films and demonstrate how these can also encourage and legitimise rape. This leads to a more holistic understanding of what this local rape culture entails. I show that the mainstream film industry has consistently portrayed this culture and suggest that filmmakers’ allegiance to such narratives has therefore amplified the promotion and reproduction of a rape culture in Pakistani society. |
| `In' analytical Note | South Asia: Journal of South Asian Studies Vol. 39, No.2; Jun 2016: p.386-400 |
| Journal Source | South Asia: Journal of South Asian Studies 2016-06 39, 2 |
| Key Words | Pakistan ; Gender ; Punishment ; Honour ; Rape ; Films |