Orientalist Perspectives: Othering the Muslims in the Reluctant Fundamentalist

Abstract

Using Orientalism as a framework, this research investigates how Muslims are portrayed in the novel The Reluctant Fundamentalist written by Mohsin Hamid. This paper analyzes the process by which narratives establish and demolish assumptions associated to Muslim identities within the context of the aftermath of the events of September 11, 2001. The essential concepts of Edward Said are an integral part of this investigation. By conducting an analysis of the experiences and relationships of the novel's protagonist, Changez, the objective of this essay is to demonstrate the novel's critique of Western views of the East and its challenge to simple representations of Muslims. The investigation lays a strong emphasis on the ways in which Hamid challenges Orientalist beliefs through the use of literary approaches. As a consequence of this, a portrayal of Muslim identity that is rich in several aspects and defies being categorized in a straightforward manner is presented. The findings of this paper offer a more comprehensive understanding of contemporary literary responses to Orientalism, as well as the various issues that Muslims face in a society that is becoming more and more globalized.