THE INTELLECTUAL LIFE OF EDWARD SAID

In: Journal of Palestine studies, Band 33, Heft 3, S. 7-22

Abstract

This essay examines Edward Said's philosophy of intellectual life and what an intellectual vocation entails. Said's major contribution, Orientalism, is discussed in light of his own concept of ""traveling theory"" and its impact on various disciplines, especially postcolonial studies. Said's views on Palestine and the Palestinians are also elaborated and contextualized in his own oeuvre. Finally, the essay discusses Said's interest in musical performance and attempts to read his work ""musically,"" showing how all his interests are part of a larger whole that constitutes his intellectual legacy.