ORIENTAL-ISM

Oriental-ism, a Seminal Text for Post Colonial Studies

Oriental-ism, a Seminal Text for Post Colonial Studies

Introduction

Intellectual instincts are the natural heritage of Homo sapiens. Intellect constitutes a founding stone in the study of several fields including art, history & literature. The science of literature and art speculates a broad spectrum of phenomena, which demonstrate the true meaning of interpreting a factual argument. Oftentimes, prejudice guides the depiction of morals of culture & civil heritage (Elmarsaf & Bernard, 2013, p.4). In the pursuit of depicting the cultural patterns, scholars have developed visions & perspectives. In this respect, the ideological biases are a general influence. Furthermore, these biases affect the reflections on the political affairs of different regions.

It is a general belief to consider the impact of perception on the written account of the worldly affairs. The impact is vibrant because the “ink” has the potential to drive the most unbiased minds, as well. Elmarsafy & Bernard (2013) documented their findings about the triumph of “Oriental-ism” in the domain of cultural research. This phenomenon continues to inspire the modern arena of literature & social studies. In this regard, there are many enduring touchstones drafted by some of the great authors. One can note “Oriental-ism” continues to guide the seminal work in history & politics. Without any doubt, the perception presents interpretation to the example of imperialism. In the historical & political recordings, authors have discussed the plus & minus of Oriental-ism. However, it is necessary to explore the true context of oriental-ism. This essay explores the rationale for considering “Oriental-ism” as a sentinel text for postcolonial studies. This would allow us to understand as to why this text has an influential value. The essay starts by elaborating the conceptual analysis with the support of literary references. The essay documents outcome, as guided by the research.

Thesis Statement: Oriental-ism is considered a seminal text for post-colonial studies. It is because the discrimination, between the East & West, has influenced the historical recordings, as well as present affairs. Oftentimes, the Western notions could deteriorate the actual realities about the Eastern countries & the Arab world.

Discussion

In the past decades, authors have recorded their findings in an influential way. In other words, the writings are able to transform the opinions & perceptions of the investigators. Art, history, politics and regional studies, all derive inspiration & motivation from the previous writings. Oriental-ism emerged between 1975 and1976. Different authors have examined this work from different perspectives. In the year 2013, the writings still discuss the legacy of oriental-ism. Some authors (Elmarsafy & Bernard, 2013) elaborate their view points by disregarding the feelings, embedded in the nature of the text. In order to exemplify the effects of interlinked scholarships, it becomes imperative to understand the place, Orient. In the cultural studies, the jurisdiction of place has a significant value. Said (1978) conveyed, “The Orient is an integral part of European material, civilisation & culture” (p.1). One can consider it as a mainstream of civilisations, languages, morals, and cultures for the ...