
Orientalism by Edward Said, English Paperback, 432 Pages
Paperback Pages: Orientalism is Edward Said’s study of how Western cultural and political ideas have represented the East. This English-language, 432-page edition suits readers interested in postcolonial critique and the history of those ideas, though customer feedback suggests its academic style can make the reading demanding.
At a glance
- Examines Western historical, cultural and political perceptions of the East.
- The listing describes Said tracing Orientalism to Europe’s long period of dominance over the Middle and Near East.
- English-language edition with 432 pages.
Often bought together
Pros and cons
Pros
- Offers a focused critique of how Western perspectives have shaped depictions of the East.
- The listed 432-page length provides room for a sustained treatment rather than a brief introduction.
Technical specifications
10 specifications| Title | Orientalism |
|---|---|
| Publisher | Random House, Inc. |
| Publication date | Oct. 12 1979 |
| Edition | 1st (first) Vintage Books |
| Language | English |
| Print length | 432 pages |
| ISBN-10 | 039474067X |
| ISBN-13 | 978-0394740676 |
| Weight listed | 1.05 kg |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 13.21 x 2.29 x 20.07 cm |
What to know before buying
Listing details to confirm
Customer feedback describes the book as academic and reports differing experiences with readability. Some readers also object to longer passages being left untranslated.
Who is it for?
A good fit for
- Readers studying postcolonial thought, cultural criticism or historical representations of the East.
- Those comfortable with a substantial academic work and potentially challenging prose.
Less suited to
- Readers seeking a short, introductory overview or consistently easy reading.
Customer reviews on Amazon
- 5 stars
78% 78% - 4 stars
12% 12% - 3 stars
7% 7% - 2 stars
1% 1% - 1 star
2% 2%
Customer feedback is strongly positive about the book’s content, academic substance and continuing relevance, with many readers describing it as interesting or essential reading. That praise may appeal to readers seeking sustained critical analysis, while reports of difficult reading and concern about untranslated passages matter if accessibility is a priority. Readability opinions differ, so the feedback does not suggest a uniform experience.
Positive themes
- Readers describe the content as insightful and the work as academically substantial.
- Customers call the book relevant and interesting.
Negative themes
- Some readers object to longer passages appearing without translation.
Mixed feedback
- Opinions differ on readability, with some finding the book difficult and others recommending it.
Frequently asked questions
What is Orientalism about?
The listing describes it as a critique of Western historical, cultural and political perceptions of the East, including how Europe’s period of dominance shaped those views.
How long is this edition?
The listing gives a print length of 432 pages.
Is it an easy read?
Customer feedback is mixed on readability. Some readers find it difficult, so it may suit readers prepared for an academic work better than those seeking an accessible introduction.
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