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electricsweater December 1 2005, 00:04:34 UTC
As far as the origional story goes, you are right in saying that it is filtered through generations of westerners. There is actually some debate as to whether it should even be in the compilation or not, and it has undoubtedly been changed from its origional text. Regardless, the Arabian nights volume was one of the first "fictional islamic" texts translated to english, and as a result, many of the western preconceptions about the "Orient" were actually formed by the book. Maybe thats why it seems like a place where "seterotypes stalk the streets."

Part of the insidious nature of Aladdin is that it IS so enjoyable you dont really think about the undertones. Do I think aladdin is a great movie. Definitely. Do I think its extremely racist. I think I'd be hard pressed to say it isnt. If you don't believe me just try watching it again...most of it is apparent if you look for it, and the rest is pretty easy to pick out if you are vaguely familiar with Said's theory.

Yeah, the valley girl in veils article is pretty interesting...ill have it for a few more days if you are over and feel like reading it.

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