Colaiacovo 1
Tom Colaiacovo
Professor Marks
Civilizations I
04/17/15
First draft paper 4
While reading Aladdin and Sundiata and comprehending their stories and all the elements
that take place it is clear to see some similarities between the two but more importantly some
major differences in the societies in each period. When focusing primarily on the women of each
society I believe women are treated poorly in the story of Sundiata and women have much more
freedom in the story of Aladdin.
During the story of Aladdin it talks about the young man who on first sight falls in love
with the princess. As the young man becomes to realize he has the genie at his fingertips he
begins to abuse his power to make the princess his. Firstly, take note of the pedestal the young
woman in this story is put upon. To start, she is a princess and is treated very well and looked
highly upon. Men who are looking to marry this woman need to prove their worthiness in order
to marry her. The average man in this society cannot marry her unless proven they are worthy to
take care of her for the rest of her life which includes wealth of great significance. It is very
important the man goes through many steps to prove to the king he is worth of her daughter.
Colaiacovo 2
Aladdin now having this magic genie uses the power to prove that he is worthy enough to
the king to marry his daughter. He begins to do so by providing the king with a wheel barrel of
jewels. Secondly, he builds a mansion style house for him and the princess to live in including
windows with jewels and all of the best material possible. When looking at a review character
and plot summary it is easy to see how women were treated well during these setting. For
example, during this plot summary for the character of princess Halima it states, “She was
married to Aladdin. A Sultan’s daughter who was very beautiful and charming.” (Qodir). Thus
pointing out she was beautiful and charming revealing her as a prize to be had. Furthermore
when looking at the character summary of Aladdin’s mother it stated, “A strong woman who
