Lecture Notes: Orientalism and Edward Said

Introduction to Orientalism

• The Orient is traditionally unable to represent itself; Western interpretation dominates.
• Orientalist work refines and legitimizes evidence of the Orient.

Edward Said

• Palestinian intellectual, literary theorist, historian of colonial narratives.
• Explained colonialism beyond military conquest, highlighting the role of literature and anthropology.
• Focused on how narratives justify oppression.

Western Perception of the East

• The West created a specific picture of the East:
  • Stereotypes: snake charmers, belly dancers, thieves.
  • Attributes: exotic, sensual, depraved.
• These perceptions were identified in 19th-century Western literature and persist in modern culture.

Modern Cultural Representation

• Modern media and literature continue to portray the East through stereotypes.
• Common themes of 'us versus them,' 'civilization versus barbarism.'
• Stereotype categories:
  • Africans as corrupt despots, starving victims.
  • Latin Americans as drug lords, football players, dictators.
  • Arabs as terrorists, misogynists.
  • Asians as software engineers, religious fanatics.

Critical Examination

• Encourages using Orientalism as a lens to critically examine media.
• Spotting stereotypes and decoding fictional narratives.
• Importance of unlearning myths perpetuated through media.

Conclusion

• Reflect on how different cultures are framed and represented.
• Consider the impact of these narratives on global understanding and relations.