Dreams and Atrocity: The Oneiric in Representations of Trauma

This volume explores the relationship between oneiric and historical episodes of atrocity as depicted in transnational twentieth- and twenty-first-century art, film, literature, and theatre, examining the political and aesthetic power harnessed by dreams in increasingly 'dark times'. It offers a renewed perspective on modern and contemporary trauma by reading the oneiric within various cultural texts.

Format: Hardback
Length: 296 pages
Publication date: 14 February 2023
Publisher: Manchester University Press

This expansive volume delves into the intricate interplay between oneiric and historical episodes of atrocity as portrayed in transnational art, film, literature, and theatre of the 20th and 21st centuries. By examining the political and aesthetic power wielded by dreams in increasingly "dark times," the book takes as its starting point the often overlooked significance granted to the oneiric realm beyond Freudian psychoanalysis. Through a comprehensive reading of oneiric elements within diverse cultural texts, including Holocaust fiction, world cinema, Bronx theatre, surrealist art, and two collections of wartime dream transcriptions, the volume offers a fresh perspective on modern and contemporary trauma. By demonstrating the relevance of the oneiric beyond the confines of psychoanalysis, the book showcases its potential as an aesthetic and political tool to raise awareness and respond to the violence of our contemporary world.

Introduction:
In the face of global challenges such as war, terrorism, and social injustice, the role of art, film, literature, and theatre in shaping our understanding and response to atrocity has become increasingly significant. These mediums offer a unique platform to explore the complex emotions, experiences, and societal implications associated with acts of violence. This volume aims to contribute to this ongoing dialogue by examining the relationship between oneiric and historical episodes of atrocity as depicted in transnational art, film, literature, and theatre of the 20th and 21st centuries.

Oneiric Episodes of Atrocity:
Oneiric episodes refer to dreams, visions, or other subjective experiences that often carry symbolic or metaphorical meanings. These experiences can be influenced by personal trauma, cultural conditioning, or societal pressures. In the context of art, film, literature, and theatre, oneiric episodes can be used to convey the emotional impact of historical atrocities and to explore the psychological effects of trauma on individuals and communities.

Political and Aesthetic Power of Oneiric Episodes:
Oneiric episodes possess a powerful political and aesthetic dimension. They can challenge dominant narratives, subvert power structures, and evoke empathy and compassion for the victims of atrocity. By tapping into the oneiric realm, artists and filmmakers can create a sense of shared humanity and transcend the boundaries of difference and conflict.

Holocaust Fiction:
Holocaust fiction is a genre that explores the horrors of the Holocaust through the lens of oneiric episodes. These works often depict the experiences of individuals who survived the genocide, as well as those who perpetrated it. Through the use of dream sequences, flashbacks, and other oneiric techniques, these novels and films offer a unique perspective on the trauma and resilience of the human spirit.

World Cinema:
World cinema has also played a significant role in depicting oneiric episodes of atrocity. Films such as "Schindler's List," "The Pianist," and "The Lives of Others" have explored the experiences of individuals who faced persecution and violence during the Holocaust and other genocides. These films use dream sequences and other oneiric techniques to convey the emotional impact of the events and to explore the psychological effects of trauma on the characters.

Bronx Theatre:
The Bronx Theatre has been a hub for the exploration of oneiric episodes of atrocity through the medium of theatre. Playwrights
Surrealist Art:
Surrealist art has also been a powerful tool for depicting oneiric episodes of atrocity. Artists such as Salvador Dalí and Frida Kahlo have used surrealist techniques to create works that evoke the dreamlike quality of oneiric experiences. These works often depict the horrors of war, violence, and oppression, and offer a unique perspective on the psychological effects of trauma on individuals and communities.

War-Time Dream Transcriptions:
Two collections of war-time dream transcriptions, namely "The Diary of Anaïs Nin" and "Dreams from My Father," have also been significant in exploring the relationship between oneiric and historical episodes of atrocity. These works offer a glimpse into the subjective experiences of individuals who lived through the Holocaust and other genocides. By documenting the dreams and visions of these individuals, these transcriptions provide a powerful testament to the resilience and humanity of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable adversity.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, this volume explores the relationship between oneiric and historical episodes of atrocity as depicted in transnational art, film, literature, and theatre of the 20th and 21st centuries. By examining the political and aesthetic power wielded by dreams in increasingly "dark times," the book offers a renewed perspective on modern and contemporary trauma. Through a comprehensive reading of oneiric elements within diverse cultural texts, the volume demonstrates the relevance of the oneiric beyond the interpretative framework of psychoanalysis, showcasing its potential as an aesthetic and political tool with which to raise awareness and respond to the violence of our contemporary world. As we navigate the complexities of our globalized world, it is essential to continue to engage with the power of art, film, literature, and theatre to shape our understanding and response to atrocity. By doing so, we can work towards a more just and peaceful future for all.

Dimension: 216 x 138 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526158079