The Power of Palestinian Dress

This thesis analyzes the significance of Palestinian dress, particularly the keffiyeh and tatreez, as symbols of resistance and political identity within the Palestinian community. The research begins by defining the key concepts: textile, clothing, costume, dress, and fashion, to clarify its roles and distinctions. It then explores the Ottoman Empire from the 18th century onwards to see how these concepts manifested in society. This builds a good framework to understand uses and transformations better in Palestine, as it was under Ottoman rule for 400 years. This historical framework allows for a detailed analysis into the transformation of Palestinian dress. By analyzing Palestinian dress and its historical transformations and contemporary relevance, the research reveals how the keffiyeh and tatreez function as powerful tools for self- expression and can also become a symbol of solidarity within both the international and Palestinian community. As both the keffiyeh and tatreez...Show moreThis thesis analyzes the significance of Palestinian dress, particularly the keffiyeh and tatreez, as symbols of resistance and political identity within the Palestinian community. The research begins by defining the key concepts: textile, clothing, costume, dress, and fashion, to clarify its roles and distinctions. It then explores the Ottoman Empire from the 18th century onwards to see how these concepts manifested in society. This builds a good framework to understand uses and transformations better in Palestine, as it was under Ottoman rule for 400 years. This historical framework allows for a detailed analysis into the transformation of Palestinian dress. By analyzing Palestinian dress and its historical transformations and contemporary relevance, the research reveals how the keffiyeh and tatreez function as powerful tools for self- expression and can also become a symbol of solidarity within both the international and Palestinian community. As both the keffiyeh and tatreez have gained international attention, the narrative has shifted from local to global. This research shifts the focus back to its local significance, as the local Palestinian narrative today often remains unseen. Through a case study that analyzes recent image material, the research seeks to understand whether the keffiyeh and tatreez are still relevant in shaping contemporary local Palestinian political identity. The results show that both pieces of political Palestinian dress continue to shape national pride and resistance through national and nostalgic dress, emphasizing its persistent power in the local context despite shifting narratives.Show less

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The Power of Palestinian Dress