Bodies Never Forget: The Case of Lived Bodily Experiences of Iranian Women

This qualitative research examines the lived experiences of Iranian women under the mandatory hijab law, utilizing a sophisticated theoretical framework that merges Foucault’s concept of bio-power with Merleau-Ponty’s embodiment theory. It further enriches this perspective by incorporating feminist theories of embodiment, providing a comprehensive lens to understand the multifaceted dynamics of these experiences. The research explores how women’s bodies have historically been a battleground for both oppression and resistance in Iran. By examining women’s socio-political circumstances, the study sheds light on the primary mechanisms and strategies the political power employs to regulate and control women’s bodies. Utilizing heartfelt narratives from in-depth interviews with eight Iranian women aged 25 to 45 focusing on bodily experiences, this research weaves together the experiences and resistances of these women in the face of compulsory hijab laws. This research uncovers the profound implications of disciplining and politicizing bodies on individuals’ daily lives. It delves into the nuanced effects ranging from societal pressures and institutional power exerted by the educational system to the emotional repercussions and unfulfilled pleasures resulting from such suppression. It highlights how Iranian women navigate, perceive, and push back against socio-political structures that attempt to regulate their bodies and expressions.