In the arranged marriage, which is more common in vil-
lages than in cities, love is expected to develop over time. As
Egyptians see it, this is far better than falling madly in love at
first sight, only to discover incompatibilities over time, and
a relationship ending in divorce. Where marriages are not
arranged, there is dating, but it is quite different from typical
courtship in the United States. For example, a son or daughter
must get his or her parents’ consent before going on a date.