The Representation of Muslim Women in Islamic Historical TV Series: A case study of Al-Hajjaj Ibn Yusuf Althaqafi

Abstract

This critical media analysis study examines the representation of historical Muslim women in historical Islamic television series, which are broadcasted in Arab and Muslim channels especially during the Holy month of Ramadan. The study focuses on how Muslim women are depicted with specific reference to Al-Hajjaj bin Yusuf al-Thaqafiseries. This series dramatises the life and times of one of the most controversial and mysterious Arab and Muslim leaders, namely Al-Hajjaj bin Yusuf al-Thaqafi. While the series primarily focus on Al-Hajaj, it includes a considerable number of actresses. The study illustrates the portrayal of well-known Muslim women characters, including Sukayna bint al-Husayn, Asma bint Abi Bakr, and several others. It assesses how they are represented and to what extent their narratives are in line or in conflict with historical accounts and Islamic cultural norms. As a critical media analysis study, the study will utilize an eclectic theoretical framework that combines theories/concepts from critical media analysis, critical discourse analysis and Islamic communication ethics. The study is mainly qualitative because descriptive or qualitative analysis is more suitable for the analysis of the episodes, the cultural and historical representations of female characters in the series as well, the audience’s response towards the series through reviews of the series or public opinion on their content as well as the linguistic aspects of the series including the grammatical and lexical errors in its various episodes.