Abstract

The comparison between the stereotypes of Barbie and Sherazade clearly shows that the serialized construction of the women's identity depends on the definition, given by men, of the opportunities and roles assigned to women in the Western and Oriental societies. These two stereotypes are really crucial elements in both the reaffirmation of the racist and segregationist system in the Western society and the consolidation of dictatorial regimes which have maintained power in Arab-muslim countries for decades and now face the reaction of the civil society in North Africa and Middle East. Indeed, beyond the appearance, life of women in Muslim-majority countries is dramatically similar to that of Western country women, as well as their claims and struggles for rights and democracy.