Authenticity and Victimhood after the Second World War: Narratives from Europe and East Asia

The book "Authenticity and Victimhood after the Second World War" explores the concept of authenticity and victimhood in the aftermath of World War II, examining how historical authenticity influences the self-identification and public recognition of social groups. It uses case studies to demonstrate the trend towards a victim-centered collective memory and the interplay of memory politics and public commemorative culture.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 360 pages
\n Publication date: 23 September 2021
\n Publisher: University of Toronto Press
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The Second World War was a period of immense suffering and atrocities, marked by a range of heinous crimes that occurred on an unprecedented scale. These crimes included genocide, forced migration and labor, human-made famine, forced sterilizations, and dispossession. The aftermath of these experiences led to the construction of victim groups in the twentieth century, with Authenticity and Victimhood after the Second World War exploring the concept of authenticity within these groups.

The collection delves into the historical narratives of victims and the construction of victimhood in Europe and East Asia. It examines how notions of historical authenticity shape the self-identification and public recognition of specific social groups. It also explores the tensions that arise from individual and group experiences of victimhood, leading to different interpretations of historical events.

Through a series of case studies, Authenticity and Victimhood after the Second World War showcases the trend towards a victim-centered collective memory and the interplay between memory politics and public commemorative culture. The book examines topics such as the Holocaust, the siege of Leningrad, American air raids on Japan, and forced migrations from Eastern Europe, providing valuable insights into the complexities of victimhood and its impact on society.

In conclusion, Authenticity and Victimhood after the Second World War is a crucial contribution to the study of victimhood and historical memory. It sheds light on the experiences of victims and the construction of their identities, highlighting the importance of acknowledging and addressing the legacy of these crimes. The book provides valuable insights into the interplay between memory, politics, and public commemorative culture, and its significance in shaping our understanding of the past and the present.

\n Weight: 718g\n
Dimension: 161 x 237 x 32 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781487528218\n \n