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Travelers' Accounts and Orientalism: Cultural Shaping of Colonial India
Dr Rahat
Abstract:
This research paper investigates the intricate and often problematic relationship between orientalism and the accounts of European travellers, focusing on how these narratives shaped colonial discourse in 18th century South Asia. It highlights the significant role that travellers' narratives played in constructing the colonial imagination, which legitimized British rule in India. Through a thorough examination of these narratives, the paper argues that they reinforced stereotypes and prejudices concerning Indian culture and society, thereby perpetuating colonialist ideologies with far-reaching consequences for the subcontinent. The study critiques these accounts, revealing how they often portrayed Indian society unfavourably, emphasizing negative and pessimistic aspects while overlooking positive dimensions. This critical lens seeks to address the biased perceptions held by the West towards the East, aiming to bridge the divide fostered by these historic accounts. The paper explores the origins and development of imperialism, alongside various contributing factors, to provide a nuanced understanding of the traveller's narratives. Using analytical and comparative research methods, the study collects qualitative data and discusses events chronologically, painting a comprehensive picture of the cultural and societal dynamics of the time. Ultimately, it seeks to uncover the legacy of orientalism and its ongoing implications for the perception of India and its position in the global landscape.
Keywords:
Orientalism, Imagination, Power Dynamics, Travel Narratives, India
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