Violence, Trauma, and Memory: Responses to War in the Late Medieval and Early Modern World

The book Violence, Trauma, and Memory: Responses to War in the Late Medieval and Early Modern World explores medieval and early modern violence and warfare in France, the Hispanic World, and the Dutch Republic through trauma studies and memory studies, highlighting how individuals and groups processed and remembered the trauma of war.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 15 May 2024
Publisher: Lexington Books

The book "Violence, Trauma, and Memory: Responses to War in the Late Medieval and Early Modern World" brings together eight essays that explore medieval and early modern violence and warfare in France, the Hispanic World, and the Dutch Republic through the lens of trauma studies and memory studies. These essays, written by historians, literary specialists, and historians of visual culture, highlight how individuals and groups living with the "ungraspable" outcomes of wartime violence grappled with processing and remembering the trauma of war.

One of the key themes of the book is the impact of warfare on individuals and communities. The essays examine how warfare disrupted social structures, caused physical and psychological harm, and left lasting scars on the survivors. They also explore how individuals and communities responded to the trauma of war, including through the creation of memorials, rituals, and narratives.

One of the most significant contributions of the book is its examination of the role of trauma in shaping memory. The essays argue that trauma can have a profound impact on how individuals remember and interpret events, and that it can lead to the creation of distorted or inaccurate memories. They also explore how trauma can be transmitted across generations, and how it can impact the way that societies deal with conflict and violence.

Another important theme of the book is the role of memory in shaping historical narratives. The essays argue that memory can be used to justify or condemn historical events, and that it can be manipulated to serve political or ideological purposes. They also explore how memory can be used to create a sense of identity and belonging, and how it can be used to challenge dominant narratives.

The book also includes a number of case studies that illustrate the impact of warfare on individuals and communities. These case studies include the French Wars of Religion, the Spanish Reconquista, and the Dutch Revolt. The essays examine how these conflicts shaped the political, social, and cultural landscape of these regions, and how they continue to impact the world today.

One of the challenges that the book faces is the fact that the topic of violence and warfare is complex and multifaceted. The essays cover a wide range of topics, and it can be difficult to keep track of all of the different arguments and perspectives. However, the book is well-written and accessible, and it provides a valuable insight into the history of violence and warfare.

In conclusion, "Violence, Trauma, and Memory: Responses to War in the Late Medieval and Early Modern World" is a valuable book that explores medieval and early modern violence and warfare in France, the Hispanic World, and the Dutch Republic through the lens of trauma studies and memory studies. The essays highlight the impact of warfare on individuals and communities, and they explore how trauma can shape memory and historical narratives. The book also includes a number of case studies that illustrate the impact of warfare on individuals and communities, and it provides a valuable insight into the history of violence and warfare.

Dimension: 237 x 160 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781666914580