The Grip of Orientalism

In Orientalism, Edward Said shows how the myth of Orientalism was possible because of European  political dominance in other countries. He said that although when Europeans colonized there were less of them than native inhabitants, their "will, self confidence, and even arrogance" were necessary to keep their political dominance. The self confidence and arrogance came from the fact they believed themselves more civilized than the "despotic" and "clannish" people. It surprises me how an idea can become so strong in a small group of people  could colonize largely populated countries but it happens nevertheless. The European idea of Oreintalism creates stereotypes with a strong hold on Eastern Culture.

This influence can be widely seen in God of Small Things but the characters handle it in different ways. Chacko believes that is because of the influence of the English that their family is not allowed in the History House. Ammu resents that views of them as a "godforsaken tribe" because of the European stereotypes of the East. But it is Estha and Rahel who handle the influence of the Europe in different ways than the rest of their family. They are affected by the stereotypes the same way the rest of the family is, but do not react to it like Ammu does. Chako said that the English dominance of their culture keeps them from entering the History House. Although Estha and Rahel literalize Chacko's metaphor, they agree with him and want to go to the history house across the river. They want to be part of what is blocked from them.  At the same time, Rahel and Estha are the biggest fans of the Sound of Music enjoy some influences of England. While some of the family has strict feelings toward the effect of Orientalism on their lives and culture, Estha and Rahel have an assortment of attitudes towards the idea.