Bakic-Hayden - Nesting orientalisms

Nesting Orientalisms: An Overview

Author: Milica Bakic-HaydenSource: Slavic Review, Vol. 54, No. 4 (Winter, 1995)

Main Idea: This note talks about "nesting orientalisms," which is used to understand the differences between the East and West and how cultures are represented.

Key Quote: "What seems outwardly shows what is truly at the heart of things." - Friedreich Nietzsche

Main Concepts

  • Orientalism: This is a way of thinking that shows the 'East' as different and lesser than the 'civilized West.' It comes from Edward Said's ideas and affects how we see and talk about these cultures.

  • Nesting Orientalisms: This idea shows a ranking of cultures:

    • Asia

    • Eastern Europe

    • BalkansThis means that the Balkans are often seen as the most "Other," leading to ideas of them being backwards or violent.

Historical Background

  • Definitions Change: Over time, what is called the "Orient" has changed, but the view of it as 'Other' continues.

  • Stereotypes: People often think of Eastern Europe as backwards and the Balkans as violent, while Western cultures define themselves by looking at these ideas.

  • Historical Writers: Philosophers like Montesquieu and Voltaire helped shape these incorrect views through their writings.

The Balkans

  • Self vs Other View: Eastern Orthodox people in the Balkans thought they were more European than those who are European Muslims, who distanced themselves from the label 'Oriental.'

  • Violence: The story around the Balkans often focuses on violence and ongoing conflicts.

  • Contradictory Definitions: The ideas that define the East contradict the real and complex identities in these areas.

National Identity

  • Cultural Identity: In Yugoslavia, people looked back to pre-communist identities, which often simplified complex pasts.

  • Religious Conflict: Differences between identities are often linked to religion, which became more clear during Yugoslavia's breakup.

  • Media Representation: The media has often created simple categories, labeling ethnic groups with negative stereotypes linked to historical conflicts.

Modern Developments

  • Changing Identities: After Yugoslavia, countries are redefining themselves and using both nationalist and revisionist narratives, leading to complicated cultural identities.

  • Desire for Europe: The wish to connect with Europe affects how countries see themselves and often involves rejecting what is seen as 'Balkan.'

  • East and West: The mixture of Eastern and Western identities shows the need to look deeper into how historical stories and political situations shape current identities.

Conclusion

  • Cultural Influences: The idea of nested orientalisms shows how cultural ideas shape how people see themselves and others in Southeast Europe.

  • Conflict's Impact: The history of conflict complicates current identities and affects how nations see themselves in relation to Europe and each other, which can lead to more misunderstandings.