The Assyrian original source of the veil is examined and assessed by contemporary middle eastern women, who give their views and experiences of the veil to Dr. Amanda Foreman.
Using the original tablet, housed in Berlin, from the 112 laws from ancient Assyria, law 40 is identified as the first known veiling law.
Given its’ association with Islam, the significance of its’ origin from the twelfth century BC: before Christianity and Islam is perhaps surprising.
The law’s conditions and legacy throughout the world are assessed in the original context.
This short film is from the BBC Two series, The Ascent of Woman.
Teacher Notes
Before viewing this short film students could create a mind map of all they know about the veil.
They might also note down three key questions they would like answers to about the veil.
After viewing the video they can see their questions have been answered and discuss any unexpected information they found out.
Curriculum Notes
This short film is suitable for teaching history at KS3 and KS4/GCSE in England, Wales and Northern Ireland and Fourth Level and National 4 and 5 in Scotland.
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