The Unexpected in Oral History: Case Studies of Surprising Interviews

This book explores how oral historians can respond to the unexpected in field research and interview analysis, promoting a collective reflection on dealing with uneasy encounters, surprises, and interviews that go off the rails. Contributors from a dozen countries, particularly Brazil, offer fascinating case studies of the eruptions of the unexpected, highlighting the complexities of dialogue, the production of oral sources, and personal narratives.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 274 pages
Publication date: 18 April 2023
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

When faced with the unexpected during field research or interview analysis, oral historians must respond in various ways. The scholarly literature often provides scattered answers or confines discussions to backstage conversations. This book aims to bring the unexpected to the forefront and foster a collective exploration of strategies for navigating uneasy encounters, surprises, and interviews that may deviate from the planned trajectory. The contributors hail from a dozen countries, with a significant presence from Brazil, where a classic piece on a "great liar" served as a catalyst for this discourse. Instead of merely offering eccentric descriptions of unusual situations, these chapters delve into a rich tapestry of reflections on dialogue, the creation of oral sources, and the intricacies of personal narratives. The book combines theoretical insights with an engaging and accessible writing style, presenting readers with captivating case studies that illustrate the eruptions of the unexpected in oral history research.

Introduction:
Oral history is a rich and complex field that relies on the collection and analysis of spoken narratives to understand the past. However, the nature of oral history research can be unpredictable, with unexpected events and revelations often occurring during fieldwork or interview analysis. This book seeks to address the challenges and opportunities that arise when the unexpected emerges in oral history research.

Unforeseen Encounters:
One of the primary challenges of dealing with the unexpected in oral history research is the disruption it can cause to the research process. Unplanned encounters with individuals or unexpected discoveries can lead to changes in the research agenda, unexpected insights, and new directions for inquiry. Oral historians must be prepared to adapt their approach and methodology to accommodate these unexpected developments.

Surprises and Unexpected Insights:
The unexpected can also lead to surprising and unexpected insights. When oral historians encounter individuals who reveal previously unknown information or perspectives, they must be open to exploring these new insights and incorporating them into their research. This can require a shift in mindset and a willingness to challenge preconceived notions and assumptions.

Navigating Uncomfortable Situations:
In addition to the challenges of dealing with unexpected events, oral historians may also face uncomfortable situations during fieldwork or interview analysis. These situations can include conflicts with interviewees, ethical dilemmas, or unexpected emotional reactions. Oral historians must be skilled in navigating these uncomfortable situations and ensuring that the rights and well-being of interviewees are protected.

Collecting Oral Sources:
The unexpected can also impact the collection of oral sources. When oral historians encounter individuals who are hesitant to share their stories or who provide information that contradicts previous assumptions, they must be flexible and adaptable in their approach. This may involve seeking out new sources, conducting additional interviews, or using different research methods to gather information.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, dealing with the unexpected in oral history research requires a combination of adaptability, openness, and ethical considerations. By bringing the unexpected to the center of the research process, this book encourages oral historians to reflect on their practices and develop strategies for navigating uneasy encounters, surprises, and interviews that may deviate from the planned trajectory. The contributions of the contributors from a diverse range of countries and backgrounds provide valuable insights into the complexities of oral history research and offer practical solutions for dealing with the unexpected.

Weight: 444g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031177484
Edition number: 1st ed. 2023