Damascus Lecture Highlights the Creativity of Syrian Women
The Arab Cultural Center in the Adawi area of Damascus hosted a cultural lecture titled “The Genius of the Syrian Woman” this Tuesday. The event was part of a broader series of activities organized by the Syrian Ministry of Culture and the Directorate of Culture in Damascus to mark Syrian Women’s Week.
Dr. Anas Tallou, who delivered the lecture, examined the presence of women in popular heritage, including proverbs, sayings, and wisdom. He also discussed the social norms that have historically shaped societal perceptions of women’s roles. During his presentation, Dr. Tallou offered linguistic and social insights, noting that the Arabic word for woman, “imra’a,” is derived from the term for “muru’a” (chivalry or moral integrity). He also linked the name “Hawwa” (Eve) to the verb “hawa,” which denotes the act of containing or embracing. He emphasized that providing a supportive environment for women is essential to unlocking their creative potential and enabling them to achieve significant success across various fields of life.
Dr. Tallou highlighted both historical and contemporary examples of Syrian women who overcame difficult circumstances to achieve remarkable success. Among those mentioned were the writers Wadad Sakakini and Adlah Bayham al-Jazaeri. He specifically praised the experience of Sakakini, who rose to prominence in the 1940s and 1950s. He noted her unique ability to balance family responsibilities with a prolific literary output that enriched the Arab library with numerous articles and books.
In a statement to SANA, Dr. Tallou asserted that Sakakini’s legacy serves as an inspiring model for the modern Syrian woman, demonstrating the capacity to integrate creative and cultural endeavors with domestic responsibilities. Furthermore, he emphasized the essential role of the mother in building a stable family unit and a cohesive society, describing the mother as the fundamental pillar of social development and the continuity of life.
The event concluded with an interactive discussion between the lecturer and the audience. Participants highlighted the diverse contributions of Syrian women in cultural, literary, and social spheres, and underscored the importance of continuing such activities to shine a light on active female role models. This seminar is one of several artistic and cultural events organized throughout Syrian Women’s Week, all aimed at celebrating the vital role of women and showcasing their ongoing achievements.
Source: Syria Focus Arabic
