The Widows of Malabar Hill

Religion is a powerful force throughout the novel, shaping many of the characters’ lives. Choose one of the female characters (e.g., Perveen, Behnoush, Razia, Sakina) and explore the impact that religious practice has on her life. How does this character find religion to be empowering or life-giving? How does religious practice stifle or limit her? Use specific examples from the source text to support your response.

This novel takes place in the early 20th century, an era regarded as the first wave of feminism when women all over the world fought for legal rights, including education, divorce, and suffrage. How are Perveen’s struggles for equality particular to India? How are they similar to women’s struggles in other parts of the world, including in the West?

Massey uses vivid sensory details to bring historical Bombay to life, including descriptions of food. Choose one passage where she describes a meal. How do these details enhance the reading experience? How does she use food to signify culture, kinship, and hospitality—or a lack thereof?