In his renowned work Orientalism Edward Said argues that 'the orient' as portrayed in Western novels, media and artwork is what?

Correct answer: C. Lost in the past, prone to despotic rule and plagued by 'odd' cultural traditions

  • A. A place prone to liberal democracy and revolutionary feminism
  • B. An accurate depiction of the modern day Middle East and Asia, meaning that scholars and academics can rely solely on these ancient works
  • C. Lost in the past, prone to despotic rule and plagued by 'odd' cultural traditions
  • D. Too focused on historical facts and accurately portraying the experience of life in the regionCompare Local Schools

Explanation

Said argues that Orientalist representations construct the East as timeless, despotic and culturally strange, rather than presenting an objective modern reality. These stereotypes helped Western powers define and govern the so-called Orient.

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