Scholars in Context: Hatem Mohammed Al-Shamea
Jadaliyya's Scholars in Context series consists of Q&As in which scholars of the Middle East describe their research and the paths they took to arrive at it. The series provides a platform for these scholars to highlight the significance of their work, identify the audiences they seek to reach, and outline their future research trajectories, giving readers an in-depth look at the latest research in a given field.
Jadaliyya (J): What is the main focus of your current research and how does it connect to or depart from your previous work?
Hatem Al-Shamea (HAS): My current research delves deeply into the definitions and perceptions of violence and terrorism, particularly in the Middle East, scrutinizing how these concepts are often framed through a colonial lens. This work builds on my previous research, especially my postdoctoral study on the intersections of religion, politics, and identity. While I have explored the dynamics of identity formation in the context of colonialism and violence in my past works, this current project emphasizes a critical re-evaluation of how Western narratives shape global understandings of terrorism. I aim to challenge the prevailing stereotypes that frequently misrepresent the Middle East, fostering a dialogue that promotes a more nuanced and equitable understanding of violence and its impact on identity.
J: What particular topics, issues, and literatures does it address?
HAS: This research addresses several critical topics: the conceptualization of violence and terrorism; the role of colonial narratives in shaping these definitions; and the ensuing implications for identity formation, particularly among marginalized communities. It also engages with literatures from postcolonial studies, Arab and Middle East literatures, critical theory, media, and cultural studies. By examining the dialogues and tensions between Western and non-Western perspectives on violence, my research seeks to highlight the biases embedded in the Western discourse on terrorism, emphasizing the need for a more inclusive approach that considers historical and socio-political contexts.
J: What brought you to this work? What was the source of inspiration?
HAS: My motivation for this research stems from a combination of personal and academic experiences. Growing up in Yemen, I witnessed firsthand the consequences of violence and the narratives that accompanied them. The stark contrast between the realities I experienced, and the portrayal of the Middle East in Western media fueled my desire to interrogate these narratives critically. Additionally, my academic background in English literature and translation has provided me with a unique lens through which to explore the language of violence and terrorism. The desire to give voice to those often rendered invisible in dominant discourses—particularly in the context of global power dynamics—has inspired my exploration of violence and its multifaceted impact on identity.
J: What audiences would you like to reach, and what kind of impact would you like your research and writing to have?
HAS: I aim to reach a diverse audience, including scholars, students, policymakers, and general readers interested in understanding the complexities of violence, identity, and terrorism. By engaging with both academic and non-academic communities, I hope to foster a critical discourse that challenges entrenched stereotypes and encourages a more empathetic and informed perspective on the Middle East. My research aspires to impact discussions on policy and education, contributing to a broader understanding of how definitions of terrorism and violence can perpetuate cycles of misunderstanding and conflict.
J: What other projects are you working on now?
HAS: Currently, I am involved in several projects that complement my research on identity, violence, and terrorism. These include a comparative analysis of literary representations of violence in Middle Eastern literature, focusing on how these narratives challenge or reinforce prevailing stereotypes. Additionally, I am working on a translation project that aims to bring underrepresented Middle Eastern voices to English-speaking audiences, highlighting the rich diversity of perspectives on identity and conflict in the region. Lastly, I am developing a series of workshops and lectures aimed at educating students and community members about the complexities of postcolonial identities and the narratives surrounding violence and terrorism. I have developed a modern literary theory called “Transformation Theory” which aims to trace the development of characters and their stages of transformation during the storytelling process.