How Does Lawrence Of Arabia To Reflect His Interpretation Of Arab Culture

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How does Lean use the wells in Lawrence of Arabia to reflect his interpretation of Arab culture? The historical drama, Lawrence of Arabia, is a reflection of one man’s interpretation of Arab culture during World War I. In Lawrence of Arabia, the director, David Lean, shows the journey of T.E. Lawrence and how he helped defeat the Turkish forces. He uses imagery and specific scenes to convey this idea of British superiority throughout the movie. The direct and indirect use of wells in the movie shows Lean’s interpretation of Arab culture. When looking at how Lean directs this movie, there are scenes that are so powerful they simply cannot be overlooked. One of these scenes is Sherif Ali’s introduction; the long, drawn out horse riding into the frame seems almost wasteful, but holds your attention, forcing you to meticulously watch every detail as Sherif Ali shoots Lawrence’s guide. This is shocking to Lawrence, as there was no warning, no perceived reason and no apparent guilt from Sherif Ali. Not only does it immediately show us the severity of violating tribal boundaries, but it also brings to light the power of simply being a Westerner. Sherif Ali did not kill Lawrence, he did not even take him hostage and we ask …show more content…

Another Arab leader, Auda abu Tayi’s, first response to an opposing tribe drinking out of his well is to kill them, this is a response you have come to expect out of a people that have been portrayed as violent and primitive. Lawrence’s presence has a profound impact once again, seemingly because he is a neutral party and British. By some mysterious miracle Lawrence is able to keep the tribes from fighting, and create a weak alliance. Could he have done this if he was not British? Unlikely. He certainly could not have done it if he was Arab, because, like any other Arab, they would have shot him on the spot for drinking out of another’s

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