Examine Said’s definition of Orientalism. Do you find any flaws, or loop holes, in his argument?

                                                              

MASTER’S DEGREE IN ENGLISH (MEG-10)

ENGLISH STUDIES IN INDIA

ASSIGNMENT 

July 2022 and January 2023 Session

Course Code: MEG-10 

5. Examine Said’s definition of Orientalism. Do you find any flaws, or loop holes, in his argument? Discuss.

Orientalism is a concept developed by Edward Said in his book, "Orientalism," published in 1978. Said defines Orientalism as the Western portrayal and representation of the East, specifically the Middle East, North Africa, and Asia. He argues that the West has constructed a false and exoticized image of the East, which is used to justify colonialism and imperialism. However, there are some potential flaws and loopholes in Said's argument. 

One potential flaw in Said's argument is that it is overly simplistic and generalizes the entire Western perspective on the East. Said's argument suggests that all Western representations of the East are negative and oppressive, which is not entirely accurate. There are instances where Western writers and scholars have portrayed the East in a positive light, celebrating its culture and traditions. Furthermore, Said's argument often does not account for the differences between the various Western countries and their approaches to Orientalism.

(For the full set of answers of 1st and 2nd year MEG  assignments/study notes WhatsApp me : +91 99 471 471 85)