The White Man’s Gaze: Orientalism and Imperialism in H. Rider Haggard’s She: A History of Adventure (1887)

Abstract

This dissertation explores H. Rider Haggard’s She: A History of Adventure (1887) through the framework of Orientalism, imperialism, and the white man’s gaze. It underscores how the narrative portrays Africa and its female titular character, Ayesha, as both fascinating and dangerous within the imperial perspective. Through a detailed analysis, it illustrates how Orientalist narratives reduce Africa to an exotic, mysterious space, reinforcing Western supremacy. The work also examines the role of the white man’s gaze, which ultimately contains and erases Ayesha’s authority, reflecting broader colonial anxieties. Ultimately, the dissertation reveals how imperial ideology, gendered representations, and racial hierarchies converge to shape the narrative and its portrayal of the Other.