Tradition of Orientalism
The tradition of Orientalism, where Western scholars study Eastern cultures, has faced criticism for its biases and inaccuracies. It often portrays Eastern societies in a simplistic or inferior manner, reinforcing stereotypes and Eurocentric views. While it has contributed to cross-cultural exchange, Orientalism’s impact on understanding and respecting diverse cultures remains debated.
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Tradition of Orientalism – Class 8 Notes
Orientalism is a tradition that emerged in the Western world, particularly during the 18th and 19th centuries, portraying the cultures, people, and landscapes of the East, primarily Asia and North Africa. Orientalists believed that the West should have Western intervention or “rescue” of the East, which they framed as inferior. This tradition is based on the presumption of European superiority, which was used to justify colonialism, especially in India.
In this article, we will look into the meaning of Orientalism and the development of vernacular language in detail. These are important concepts of NCERT Class 8 History. Students can go through this article to get comprehensive notes on the “Tradition of Orientalism”.
Table of Content
- What is Orientalism?
- Development of Vernacular Education
- Criticism of Orientalism
- Conclusion: Tradition of Orientalism