Media Discourse of Commemoration: The Centenary of World War One in Europe

This book investigates how mainstream daily newspapers in seven European countries present, report, and mediate First World War commemoration events on their websites. It is part of the DIREPA-EUROPE research group, which analyzes the discourse generated by the WWI Armistice Centenary in 2018. The study will interest scholars of discourse and media studies, European history, cultural memory, journalism, and conflict studies.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 277 pages
Publication date: 24 January 2023
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This captivating book delves into the intricate ways in which First World War commemoration events are showcased, reported, and mediated on the websites of mainstream daily newspapers across seven European countries. The result of a collaborative research effort by the DIREPA-EUROPE (Discours, Representations, Past of Europe) research group, part of the Lemel research network, this book offers a comprehensive analysis of the commemorative discourse sparked by the WWI Armistice Centenary in 2018. With a shared passion for media discourse and online newspapers, the authors have crafted a fluid analysis chain that sheds light on the various facets of this commemorative discourse.

This book appeals to scholars and researchers across a wide range of disciplines, including discourse and media studies, European history, cultural memory, journalism, and conflict studies. Its insights into the ways in which the media shapes and interprets historical events, as well as the role of online newspapers in shaping public perceptions and narratives, are of immense value.

The book is organized into four distinct chapters, each exploring a different aspect of the commemorative discourse. In the first chapter, the authors provide an overview of the research project and the methodology employed. They introduce the seven European countries selected for the study, the mainstream daily newspapers analyzed, and the key themes and trends identified in the commemorative discourse.

Chapter two delves into the representation of the First World War in the mainstream daily newspapers. The authors examine how the war is depicted through various lenses, including historical accuracy, emotional impact, and political implications. They analyze the use of visual imagery, language, and narrative structures to convey the significance of the war and its impact on society.

Chapter three explores the role of online newspapers in shaping the commemorative discourse. The authors examine how these digital platforms provide new opportunities for public participation, engagement, and dissemination of information. They analyze the ways in which online newspapers facilitate the creation of virtual communities, the sharing of personal stories, and the dissemination of alternative perspectives on the war.

Chapter four examines the mediation of the commemorative discourse by the mainstream daily newspapers. The authors explore how these newspapers shape the public's understanding of the war, its legacy, and its significance. They analyze the use of framing, selective reporting, and editorial choices to influence public opinion and shape the narrative of the commemoration.

In conclusion, this book offers a rich and insightful exploration of the ways in which First World War commemoration events are presented, reported, and mediated on the websites of mainstream daily newspapers across seven European countries. Its comprehensive analysis chain provides valuable insights into the complex dynamics of commemorative discourse, the role of the media in shaping public perceptions and narratives, and the ways in which online newspapers contribute to the ongoing dialogue about the past. This book will be of interest to scholars, researchers, and anyone with an interest in the study of media, history, and conflict.

Weight: 394g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030900816
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021