Date of Award

2016-05-03

Degree Name

UTEP Liberal Arts Honors Program

College

College of Liberal Arts

Abstract

This honors thesis examines three core principles in Edward Said’s Orientalism to provide a balanced critique of postcolonial theory within the context of modern East-West conflicts. The author first outlines Said’s arguments regarding Orientalist discourse, which leverages knowledge to implement hegemonic power; Orientalist representation, which utilizes "imaginative geography" to construct artificial boundaries; and the Orientalist as an agent of these frameworks.

The study then addresses significant scholarly criticisms, highlighting methodological tensions between Said and figures like Marshall Hodgson and Bernard Lewis. A central contribution of the thesis is its exploration of a notable "lacuna" in Said’s work: the exclusion of female Orientalists and European Muslim converts, whose writings often challenged the Eurocentric, male-dominated narratives Said critiques. Ultimately, the thesis advocates for a humanistic approach to global history that transcends "othering" to foster genuine cross-cultural coexistence.

Language

en

File Size

64 pages

File Format

pdf

Rights Holder

Thomas Maldonado

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