"This study examines patterns of change in Shi'i symbols and rituals over the past two centuries to reveal how modernization has influenced the societal, political, and religious culture of Iran." "Moharram symbols and rituals are among the most pervasive and popular aspects of Iranian culture and society. The Martyrs of Karbala traces patterns of continuity and change in three aspects of Iranian life: the importance of these rituals in promoting social bonds, status, identities, and ideals; the ways in which three ...
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"This study examines patterns of change in Shi'i symbols and rituals over the past two centuries to reveal how modernization has influenced the societal, political, and religious culture of Iran." "Moharram symbols and rituals are among the most pervasive and popular aspects of Iranian culture and society. The Martyrs of Karbala traces patterns of continuity and change in three aspects of Iranian life: the importance of these rituals in promoting social bonds, status, identities, and ideals; the ways in which three successive regimes (Qajars, Pahlavis, and the Islamic Republic) have either used these rituals to promote their legitimacy or have suppressed them because they viewed them as a potential political threat; and the uses of Moharram symbolism by opposition groups interested in overthrowing the regime."--Jacket.
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