Selim, a cruel and bigoted father with an unknown job, despises his daughter for being born a girl. He confines Ayşe to their home until she's old enough for school. When he refuses to let her attend, Ayşe's life worsens; even school doesn't offer escape from his beatings. Despite continuing her education through elementary and into high school, Ayşe faces the same harsh reactions from Selim. As university entrance exams approach, Selim believes she's had enough schooling and insists she marry a suitable young man and arrange a dowry.