Edward Said and Wael Hallaq: Overlooked Questions in Postcolonial Studies

Abstract

This study elucidates the significance of Wael Hallaq’s critique of Said’s Orientalism and to clarifies the limits of this critique. Second, it seeks to define the role of Orientalism within his intellectual project. Finally, it analyses the questions raised by Hallaq that have been overlooked in postcolonial studies. The study is underpinned by the following paradox: Hallaq critiques the modernity that produced Orientalism, yet his analysis concludes by defending a modified Orientalism. Conversely, Said focused his critique on Orientalism rather than on modernity and demanded its replacement. The research concludes that Said did not critique modernity, which constrained his critical project. It also finds that while Hallaq's engagement in modifying Orientalism demonstrates the limitations of his critique, it opens theoretical possibilities for interrogating postcolonial studies.