Orientalism

Orientalism is a concept in postcolonial studies referring to the treatment of non-Western cultures by colonial forces (usually British, but not always).

The term "Oriental" is itself a racist term used by colonizers to refer to any culture in the eastern hemisphere. In literary and historical texts, Orientalism appears whenever a character or historical figure is seen as "The Other" (i.e., foreign, not like "us"). The character is usually in a passive, subservient, ignorant role to a clearly dominant power, and while this dominion can appear in nearly any form, it is often depicted in sexual terms. For example, the "Oriental" women's clothing could be scant in comparison with the white men. Settings are described in fanciful, ornate terms, totally opposite from the khaki or white clothing/furnishings of the "civilized" people who view the scene. Interactions between the "Orientals" and whites or among the Orientals are full of biological generalizations as well as cultural and religious prejudices. Orientalism, for the most part, was a way to keep the colonized peoples under subjugation and domination.

Edward Said (pronounced "sah-eed") is the most prominent scholar on the subject.

Jump to: Main Page • Micropedia • Macropedia • Icons • Time Line • History • Life Lessons • Links • Help
Chat rooms • What links here • Copyright info • Contact information • Category:Root