Home
>
Marriage & Wedding
>
The Reality of Arranged Marriages

The Reality of Arranged Marriages

Arranged marriages have been a topic of interest for centuries. Authors across the ages have explored this theme at length, and it still surfaces in literary works today. What's the appeal? Is it the fascination with the lack of lust and desire we cultivate in North American society? We strive on the element of danger, of the forbidden, while an arranged marriage is usually a safe way to ensure a family's approval of a union.

And yet, many of today's romance novels deal with marriages of convenience. We've all read them: the heroine marries the hero because she needs him, whether for financial reasons, or because her children need a father -- there are as many reasons to marry as there are novels dealing with this subject. Yet although the marriage isn't initially based on love, there's always that sensual tension simmering beneath the surface, and as readers, we know it's inevitable that the two are going to fall deeply and irrevocably in love.

But what about real life, where things don't always work out so well? Arranged marriages are commonplace in a number of countries, such as Iran, Iraq, Afghanistan, Japan and India. They're more common than you'd think even in North America, where cultural diversity is cherished and encouraged.

Young people in countries where arranged marriages are commonplace are told from an early age that their spouse will be chosen for them. To deny an arranged marriage is seen as a sign of disrespect toward the family. But how are suitable spouses chosen? In Japan, for instance, "when a woman reaches the marriageable age of 25, she and her parents compile a packet of information about her, including a photograph of her in a kimono and descriptions of her family background, education, hobbies, accomplishments and interests. Her parents then inquire among their friends and acquaintances to see if anyone knows a man who would be a suitable husband for her" (the Asia Society's Video Letter from Japan: My Family, 1988). Usually, the most important aspect of choosing a suitable spouse is the bond between the two families, rather than the relationship between the couple being married. Property or land with the aim of securing social status sometimes seals marriage agreements.

Do arranged marriages work? Opinions tend to differ. Statistics place the divorce rate for arranged marriages much lower than those in the United States, where marriages out of love are the rule. However, research also shows that the pressure a married couple encounters from both society as a whole, and from the respective families, suggests that divorce is often not an option.

Can love grow out of an arranged marriage? Absolutely, and in the same way that love can grow in romance novels from a marriage of convenience. But there's more to love than finding a suitable match. Love can grow for many reasons, from lust at first sight to friendship that develops over a long period of time. It's impossible to predict whether a union will be successful. The only two people who can make it work are the bride and groom, the hero and heroine of their own story.

Lacey Savage is the author of a number of sensual romance short stories, novels and novellas. Her articles and works of fiction often focus on women's issues and relationships. Find out more about Lacey at http://www.laceysavage.com

non-toxic cleaning company Northbrook ..

In The News:

Massive password leak reveals cybersecurity flaws. Learn how to protect your accounts with strong passwords, two-factor authentication and data removal services.

Stay up to date on the latest AI technology advancements and learn about the challenges and opportunities AI presents now and for the future.

Discover how Wandercraft's AI-driven exoskeleton, inspired by personal stories, is transforming mobility for millions, offering independence and a brighter future.

Discover the basics of artificial intelligence, including neural networks and machine learning, to navigate the AI-powered world with confidence and curiosity.

AI technology in NYC subways aims to improve safety by monitoring behavior patterns, led by MTA's Michael Kemper, while ensuring rider privacy is protected.

NASA's Voyager 1, launched in 1977, explores interstellar space. Antenna upgrades in Australia will enhance communication for future lunar missions.

Meta's platforms are under scrutiny for allowing scam ads, with reports of fraud linked to Zelle transactions. Critics question Meta's commitment to user safety.

Discover the Lynx M20 by Deep Robotics, a durable robot with AI intelligence capable of navigating harsh terrains and supporting industrial operations.

Discover effective strategies for removing your data from people-search sites and explore the role of privacy laws in safeguarding your information.

Chevrolet's 2025 Blazer EV SS made history as the first electric pace car at the Daytona 500, showcasing performance with 615 horsepower and 303-mile range.

A new study reveals nearly half of parents are unaware that data services like Apple's iCloud analyze their kids' images, raising privacy concerns over AI deepfakes.

Tech expert Kurt “CyberGuy" Knutsson reports that healthcare information of more than 430,000 Ascension patients was exposed in a data breach.

Kurt “CyberGuy" Knutsson discusses how the Hero PRO, a wireless, waterproof bionic arm with fast control and full 360-degree wrist rotation, transforms prosthetics.

Tech expert Kurt “CyberGuy" Knutsson says SuperCard X Android malware steals card data and lets attackers use your card remotely.

Tech expert Kurt “CyberGuy" Knutsson reports on China’s Zhiyuan unveiling world’s first tri-ducted wearable eVTOL with hands-free control.

Discover how check washing fraud has evolved with new digital tools, leading to a surge in incidents. Find out how to safeguard your finances effectively.

Atmos Space Cargo's Phoenix 1 mission marks Europe's entry into space return technology, with rapid prototyping and multinational collaboration leading the way.

Is your old PC a security risk? Find out how to protect it or give it a new life with Linux, turning it into a media server or backup station.

Stay up to date on the latest AI technology advancements and learn about the challenges and opportunities AI presents now and for the future.

Epic Games' new voice-interactive Fortnite character uses Google's Gemini AI to recreate James Earl Jones' iconic voice for the first time in-game.

Robots like Chery's Mornine are transforming car dealerships, offering multilingual support, showroom tours and a glimpse into the future of retail.

Discover how to reclaim valuable space on your PC by deleting unnecessary files, using cloud storage and enabling Windows Storage Sense.

Learn how to troubleshoot disappearing emails on iPhone and Android devices. Find out the reasons behind this issue and how to prevent it from happening again.

Kurt the CyberGuy explores how hackers exploit data broker files to access personal information and explains services available to protect your privacy.

Slate Truck, which is backed by Jeff Bezos, is priced at $20,000 after federal EV incentives, a concept some would consider radical and even inconceivable.

The Reality of Arranged Marriages

Marriage & Wedding