Edge of Empire: Conquest and Collecting in the East 1750–1850 by Maya Jasanoff

Description

“Edge of Empire: Conquest and Collecting in the East 1750–1850” is a book by Maya Jasanoff, published in 2005. In this work, Jasanoff examines the complex interactions between European imperial powers and the cultures of the East during the period of 1750 to 1850.

The book focuses on the activities of European collectors, traders, and explorers who ventured into Asia, Africa, and the Middle East during this era of imperial expansion. Jasanoff explores how these encounters shaped European perceptions of the East and contributed to the development of imperial ideologies and practices.

Through a series of case studies and vivid narratives, Jasanoff examines various aspects of European engagement with the East, including the acquisition of artifacts, the study of local customs and languages, and the construction of colonial knowledge systems. She also explores the ways in which European collectors and scholars sought to assert their cultural and intellectual superiority over indigenous peoples and traditions.

“Edge of Empire” sheds light on the complexities of cultural exchange and power dynamics in the context of European imperialism. Jasanoff challenges conventional narratives of imperial conquest and exploitation, highlighting the agency and resilience of indigenous peoples in the face of colonial domination.

Overall, “Edge of Empire” offers readers a nuanced and insightful exploration of the intersections of culture, power, and identity in the age of European imperialism. Jasanoff’s interdisciplinary approach and engaging storytelling make the book accessible to both scholars and general readers interested in the history of empire and colonialism.