1. Isn’t it Romantic?

2. Arranged or Forced? Divide into 2 groups –Group 1 – define “arranged marriage” –Group 2 – define “forced marriage” Share

3. Arranged or Forced? Arranged Marriage

4. India – dowry deaths China – arranged Japan – decline of marriage Saudi Arabia – child brides

5. Morocco – Exonerated by Marriage An otherwise modern country If a man is accused of rape, can marry the victim to avoid punishment. Results in either girl’s suicide or divorce

6. Saudi Arabia Parents marry young girls to relieve of economic burden An 8 year old married a 39 year old; 11 year old girl married 22 year old – parents were surprised when marriage was consumated Divorce allowed on occasion, but there are social consequences Discussing enacting a minimum age

7. Japan In general, people are marrying later Women are finding it difficult to have careers and husbands, so choosing the job. A cause is female independence because of increased income Fewer children resulting and creates issue in areas with no retirement or social security

8. India Gifts are given to each side In the event the bride’s side can not pay, the groom harasses the bride sometimes to the point of killing her, sometimes she commits suicide Dowry deaths are illegal but difficult to prosecute

9. In China Customs of the three letters & six etiquettes –Proposal – boy’s parents find a potential daughter-n- law then contact matchmaker –Birthdates – matchmaker analyzes birthdates (fortune telling) –Bride price – matchmaker to present bride price –Arranging the wedding – pick an auspicious date –Wedding ceremony – a multi-part ritual –Actual wedding – equivalent to exchanging vows