Greek religion and the other
Resource type
Book chapter
Creator (person)
Harrison, Thomas
Date published
2024
Abstract
Edward Said, in his seminal book Orientalism, perceived clear links between the ancient Greek and Roman stereotypes of the East and the prejudiced European nineteenth-century picture of the Muslim world, which was considered exotic, backward, uncivilised, degenerate, and dangerous, in contrast with the Western societies that were seen as developed, rational, flexible, and, above all, superior. However, the reality is much more complex – shaped by both the imperialist perceptions of defeated enemies embraced by all Middle Eastern empires going back at least to the Assyrians, and the intermixed admiration and jealousy of the old 'Eastern' traditions of learning. Part of the Greek and Roman stereotypes of the East are rooted in the interaction with eastern imperial ideals, being taken over and further developed to strengthen common Hellenic and Roman identities. Due to the subsequent free borrowing of these stereotypes and their application to different societies, the Orient has always been a moving '(n)everwhere' with each culture constructing their own Oriental mirages.
Book title
Oriental Mirages: Stereotypes and Identity Creation in the Ancient World
Editor
Forsén, Bjà¶rn
Lampinen, Antti
Pagination
99-133
Publisher
Franz Steiner
Place of publication
Stuggart
Keywords