TORCH invites Professor Fouzia Farooq, Associate Professor of Quaid-i-Azam University Islamabad and 2024-25 All Souls/ Global Visiting Professor for a conversation on the diverse expressions of female agency within the Delhi Sultanate (1192–1526).

Professor Farooq will explore how women, within the confines of societal frameworks like the harem and royal court, exercised influence and navigated complex social roles—from concubines and artisans to servants and political actors. By examining their experiences, the discussion excavates how these women negotiated and occasionally subverted the constraints of gender and class, showcasing what can be termed “constrained agency.”

There will be a showcase of selected manuscripts for audience members to peruse after the talk.

Tea and light snacks will be provided.