This study traces the evolution of the role of women, from ancient Middle Eastern societies to the 17th century. Guity Nashat examines the interplay between local practices and early Islamic beliefs and institutions. She further examines the expansion of Islam throughout the area, and the subsequent development of the foundations of Islamic law and practice with regard to women. Judith E. Tucker surveys women and gender issues in the 19th- and 20th-century Middle East, with a particular focus on economic activity, access to political power and contributions to cultural life. This essay also addresses the role that Islam and indigenous custom are thought at play in shaping women's lives.