IndexThe gaze of the West and cultural hegemonyResistance and subversionConclusionUnder the eyes of the West is a literary work by the Russian author Fyodor Dostoevsky, first published in 1866. The novel explores the complex themes of cultural identity, power dynamics and impact of Western influence on Russian society. In this essay I will analyze the novel from a postcolonial perspective, examining how the characters' experiences and interactions are shaped by the lens of the Western gaze. Through a close reading of the text and drawing on secondary sources, I will argue that Under the Western Eyes offers a powerful critique of the Western gaze and its effects on the colonized subject. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay The Western Gaze and Cultural Hegemony In Under the Eyes of the West, Dostoevsky portrays Russian characters as constantly aware of the Western gaze, which imposes a sense of inferiority and self-consciousness upon them. This is exemplified in the character of Razumikhin, who is acutely aware of his status as a Russian in the eyes of the Westerners he encounters. This reflects the concept of cultural hegemony, as described by Marxist thinker Antonio Gramsci, according to which the dominant culture exerts its influence on subordinate cultures through the diffusion of its values ​​and norms. The Western gaze in the novel thus serves as an instrument of cultural hegemony, reinforcing the superiority of Western culture and marginalizing Russian characters. Furthermore, the Western gaze in Under Western Eyes is not simply a passive observation, but an active force that shapes the Russian characters' behavior and self-perception. This is evident in the character of Kirillov, who internalizes the Western gaze to the point of hating himself, ultimately leading him to suicide. This tragic outcome highlights the destructive power of the Western gaze, as it drives Kirillov into a state of despair and alienation. This is in line with postcolonial theorist Frantz Fanon's concept of internalized colonialism, according to which the colonized subject adopts the values ​​and attitudes of the colonizer, leading to a sense of self-alienation and internal conflict. Resistance and Subversion Despite the pervasive influence of the Western gaze, Dostoevsky also portrays moments of resistance and subversion among Russian characters. For example, the character of Natasha asserts her agency and challenges the Western gaze through her actions, refusing to conform to the expectations imposed on her. This can be seen as a form of cultural resistance, as described by postcolonial scholar Homi Bhabha, whereby the colonized subject asserts their cultural identity in defiance of colonial norms. Furthermore, Dostoevsky explores the theme of subversion through the character of Stepan Trofimovich, who engages in intellectual discourse and challenges the hegemonic narratives imposed by the Western gaze. This reflects the postcolonial concept of counter-discourse, as articulated by theorist Edward Said, whereby the colonized subject seeks to challenge and reformulate dominant narratives through alternative forms of knowledge production. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper now from our expert writers. Get a Custom Essay Conclusion Under the Eyes of the West offers a compelling critique of the Western gaze and its impact on the colonized subject. Through the lens of postcolonial theory, we can understand the novel as a complex exploration of cultural hegemony, of.