New Books in Critical Theory
Professor Priyamvada Gopal on Anticolonial Resistance
Feb 14, 2025
Priyamvada Gopal, a Professor of Postcolonial Studies at the University of Cambridge, dives into the intricacies of anticolonial resistance and its relevance today. She illuminates how literature can inspire liberation while exploring connections between Muslim identity and decolonial thought. Gopal also articulates the differences between postcolonial and decolonial frameworks, critiques historical narratives, and addresses the complexities of contemporary decolonization, particularly in South Asian contexts and beyond.
58:52
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Quick takeaways
- Professor Gopal emphasizes the importance of reorienting history to recognize the rich contributions of Muslim cultures often marginalized in mainstream narratives.
- The episode discusses how anticolonial literature challenges national identities, highlighting the critical role of dissent in reimagining resistance and individual experience.
Deep dives
Reorienting History and Representation
The episode delves into the theme of reorienting history, particularly the historical perception of Muslims as a people without a past. It challenges the notion that Islamic contributions and experiences are peripheral to historical narratives, instead advocating for an inclusive perspective that recognizes the rich histories embedded in Muslim cultures. This shift aims to correct the dominant grand narratives that often exclude or marginalize Muslim voices and contributions to global history. It underlines the necessity for a more equitable understanding of history that embraces the complexities of identities and experiences.
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