On the Uses of Memory: As Monument, As Reflex, As Disturbance

Memory is often discussed as an asset or a liability. Memory can function as "monument" in the form of commemoration and celebration of a proud collective identity, and a foundation on which individuals build their own identity. The function of memory, however, can be that of making us une...

Ausführliche Beschreibung

Bibliographische Detailangaben
Veröffentlicht in:Economic and Political Weekly. - Sameeksha Trust, 1966. - 49(2014), 30, Seite 43-47
1. Verfasser: PORTELLI, ALESSANDRO (VerfasserIn)
Format: Online-Aufsatz
Sprache:English
Veröffentlicht: 2014
Zugriff auf das übergeordnete Werk:Economic and Political Weekly
Schlagworte:Political science Behavioral sciences Social sciences History
Beschreibung
Zusammenfassung:Memory is often discussed as an asset or a liability. Memory can function as "monument" in the form of commemoration and celebration of a proud collective identity, and a foundation on which individuals build their own identity. The function of memory, however, can be that of making us uneasy about ourselves and our history. This paper discusses in these terms the memory of two events that have shaped Italian national memory and identity: the Risorgimento (the war of national independence and unification) and the Resistance (the war of liberation from Fascism and Nazism). While both episodes are often celebrated in (literally) monumental terms, oral histories reveal hidden contradictions.
ISSN:23498846