Othering

Definition

Othering is the process of perceiving or portraying a group or individual as fundamentally different and alien from oneself, often leading to marginalization and exclusion. This concept plays a critical role in shaping identities and power dynamics, particularly in postcolonial contexts where indigenous myths and cultures are often misrepresented or appropriated by dominant narratives.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Othering is often used to create a binary distinction between 'us' (the dominant group) and 'them' (the marginalized group), reinforcing stereotypes and prejudices.
2. In postcolonial adaptations of indigenous myths, othering can manifest through the distortion or simplification of complex cultural narratives, leading to the loss of authenticity.
3. Othering contributes to the ongoing effects of colonialism by perpetuating power imbalances between colonizers and colonized peoples.
4. The concept of othering can be challenged through efforts to reclaim indigenous narratives and promote cultural understanding and appreciation.
5. Literature that seeks to deconstruct othering often aims to give voice to marginalized groups, allowing for a more nuanced representation of their stories and experiences.

Review Questions

• How does othering impact the representation of indigenous myths in postcolonial adaptations?
  • Othering impacts the representation of indigenous myths by framing these narratives as exotic or foreign, stripping them of their cultural significance. This process leads to oversimplifications or misinterpretations that undermine the depth and complexity of these stories. By viewing indigenous cultures through an 'othered' lens, adaptations may fail to respect the original contexts, thus perpetuating stereotypes while distorting the authentic voices of these communities.
• Discuss the relationship between othering and cultural appropriation in the context of postcolonial literature.
  • Othering and cultural appropriation are closely related concepts in postcolonial literature. Othering creates a framework where dominant cultures view marginalized groups as fundamentally different, paving the way for appropriation. When elements of indigenous myths are borrowed without proper understanding or respect for their origins, it reinforces stereotypes while ignoring the realities of those cultures. This dynamic not only misrepresents the original narratives but also highlights ongoing power imbalances that are rooted in colonial histories.
• Evaluate the strategies that can be employed to combat othering in literature and promote authentic representations of marginalized cultures.
  • To combat othering in literature, several strategies can be employed, including promoting works by authors from marginalized cultures that authentically represent their experiences. Encouraging critical engagement with texts allows readers to recognize and question instances of othering. Additionally, fostering intercultural dialogue can lead to greater understanding and appreciation for diverse narratives. Ultimately, prioritizing inclusivity and representation in storytelling not only challenges stereotypes but also empowers marginalized voices to reclaim their narratives.

Related terms

Colonialism: The practice of acquiring control over another country or territory, often through force, and exploiting its resources and people.

Cultural Appropriation: The act of taking or using elements from one culture by members of another culture, often without understanding or respecting the original context.

Identity Politics: Political positions based on the interests and perspectives of social groups with which people identify, often highlighting issues of race, gender, sexuality, and ethnicity.