Introduzione

The relations between the East and the West have been understood long time through the distorting lenses of Orientalism and Occidentalism, which have confined the complexity and richness of cultures in a collective imagination built on stereotypes and clichés. In fact, "East" and "West" are not just theoretical concepts that define a geographic dimension, but they have a cultural dimension, almost mythical, which reveals a strong interdependence. In the contemporary world the opportunities for discussion and contact with the diversity are multiplied, also with regards to the mass communication: but it is urgent to rethink the relationship between East and West and go over distorted representations. The Mediterranean area can play a key role in stopping the flow of misunderstandings because, while dividing the two sides, also incorporates them. Only by going beyond the impasse of a superficial knowledge nourished by prejudice and remembering the common cultural heritage of the countries bordering the Mediterranean, can be built a real opportunity for dialogue and encounter. This volume collects the work of scholars from various countries of the Mediterranean, all joined in the effort to combat the distorted images and develop new conceptual categories to interpreting the contemporary scenario.