These four volumes in this major series... provide a single-source reference to the status of the field of women's history and to ways that the field can be expanded.... A basic set for all academic libraries." --Library Journal Academic Newswire Tracing the evolution of the role of women beginning with ancient Middle Eastern societies through the 17th century, Nashat and Tucker examine the interplay between local practices and early Islamic beliefs and institutions, as well as economic activity, access to political power, and contributions to cultural life.