ORIENTALIST Meaning and
Definition
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Orientalist is a term used to refer to scholars, artists, writers, or individuals who study, depict, or delve into Orientalism. Orientalism is an academic and cultural movement that emerged mainly in the 19th century, focusing on the study of the Eastern world, primarily the Middle East, North Africa, and Asia. This term is often associated with the academic field of Oriental studies or Orientalism studies.
An orientalist is characterized by their interest in exploring, understanding, and making connections with Eastern cultures, traditions, languages, history, art, and other aspects of the Orient. They might engage in research, travel, or immersion in these cultures to attain a deeper understanding.
While traditionally, orientalists were of Western origin, today the term can be extended to include scholars from any background who are engaged in these studies.
It is important to note that orientalism as a discipline has been subject to criticism for perpetuating stereotypes, promoting a Eurocentric perspective, and often depicting the Orient as exotic, mystical, and inferior to the West. Critiques argue that orientalists may inadvertently reinforce colonialist or imperialist ideologies through their studies.
Overall, the term "orientalist" refers to an individual who studies or explores the Eastern world, with a focus on its culture, art, history, languages, and other aspects, within the context of the academic and cultural movement of Orientalism.
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One versed in the languages and literature of Asia; an inhabitant of the Eastern parts of the world.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for ORIENTALIST
Etymology of ORIENTALIST
The term "orientalist" dates back to the 18th century and its etymology can be traced to the word "Orient", which refers to the eastern part of the world, particularly Asia and the Middle East. The root of the word "Orient" is from the Latin word "oriens", meaning "rising" or "the east".
The suffix "-alist" in the term "orientalist" is derived from the French "-aliste", which denotes a practitioner or a follower of something. Therefore, an "orientalist" originally referred to a person with an interest in, or someone who studies, the cultural, historical, and artistic aspects of the East.
However, it is important to note that over time, the term "orientalist" has gained multiple connotations and has been subject to critique due to its association with Orientalism—an approach that reflects certain biases and stereotypes about the Eastern world.
Similar spelling words for ORIENTALIST
- oriental roach,
- orientalize,
- orientation,
- oriental poppy,
- orientate,
- orienting,
- orientating,
- orientated,
- orientalise,
- Orientalism,
- oriental,
- oriental sore,
- oriental plane,
- oriented.
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