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Orientalism
1 unrolled thread about orientalism, each one readable on a single page.
Mar 20, 2026
Orientalism in the Zelda franchise and the problem of the Gerudo — an educative thread 🧵
Summary
This thread examines how the Gerudo race in the Legend of Zelda franchise perpetuates Orientalist stereotypes rooted in Western colonial attitudes toward Arab and Islamic cultures. The analysis traces problematic design choices from Ocarina of Time's use of Islamic iconography for villains through Breath of the Wild's sexualized Vai outfit and harem-like town design, arguing Nintendo should develop the Gerudo with greater cultural sensitivity and consultation with SWANA (Southwest Asian and North African) voices.
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