The Arabian Nights is a text which has existed in some form for thousands of years. It has been read, studied and enjoyed by millions of audiences all over the world and now we are reading it here in this class. This text is full of examples of problematic racial and sexist issues, but does this mean that we should stop reading it? I think the answer to this question is a lot more complicated than a simple yes or no. In my opinion, the main factor that goes into this is who is reading it and what they are reading it for. 

It is incredibly important for historians, scholars, and theorists to continue to read historical texts like this to best understand them and the implications about our past which they present. History is the best place to look when considering our future and the way we represent and treat people and identities going forward. By reading The Arabian Nights and discussing the issues it presents I have become more aware of my own actions and mistakes and the best way to move forward without these harmful stereotypes. In this way, I believe that it is crucial for us to continue to read this work. 

On the other hand, I don’t think this story should be casually used for entertainment. I think it is important that audience’s that read this story are able to understand and discuss the harmful stereotypes portrayed within it. This story is very dangerous for children as it can give them a false perception of how people from different cultures look and act. I think this story must be shared with a warning and general understanding of the harmful content within. 

The nights are an important piece of literature and a slice of history which we should not let disappear but it is important that those who read it are able to understand and comprehend the harm which can be caused by the imagery which is portrayed.