“Memories of possession. Life narratives and literary testimonies (1940-1944)” is the theme of the event that will be held at the Kostis Palamas House of Letters on Wednesday, October 23 at 7:30 in the afternoon.
The speakers will be Alexandra Patrikiou, Assistant Professor of History of Modern Greek Education, University of Patras and Yiannis Papatheodorou, Associate Professor of Modern Greek Philology, University of Patras.
In Europe and Greece, a large part of Public History as well as Memory Studies focuses on the 1940s, with an emphasis on the liminal experiences of war and occupation, the militant action of the Resistance, the extreme event of the Holocaust.
In the last decades, in fact, in the Humanities and Social Sciences there has been a systematic shift in the study of oral narratives, archival documents and testimonies surrounding the Second World War, in relation to the formation of the post-war and modern world. On the occasion of the eighty years since the liberation, the event focuses on the “culture of memory” in Greece, with indicative examples from synchronous records of the period 1940-1944, from later oral “narratives of life”, as well as from the new archival availability.
The discussion opens a series of planned events with tributes around the memories and literary testimonies of that period.
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Interview with Alexandra Patrikiou and Yiannis Papatheodorou on the Event “Memories of Possession“
Editor: Thank you both for joining us today. Your upcoming event at the Kostis Palamas House of Letters titled “Memories of Possession. Life narratives and literary testimonies (1940-1944)” seems incredibly timely. Can you share what inspired this particular focus on the 1940s and the culture of memory in Greece?
Alexandra Patrikiou: Absolutely. The 1940s were a pivotal era for Greece, marked by events such as the war, occupation, and the Holocaust. We aim to unearth and discuss the narratives surrounding this tumultuous time, especially as we commemorate the eighty years since liberation. It’s crucial to keep these memories alive and push beyond mere remembrance to understand their impact on contemporary identity.
Yiannis Papatheodorou: I’d add that there’s been a significant shift in how we study these narratives—moving from strictly historical accounts to a more nuanced understanding of personal testimonies and oral histories. This approach allows us to connect emotional truths with historical facts, enriching our understanding of the past.
Editor: How do you see the role of ‘oral narratives’ changing the public’s perception of history, especially regarding such traumatic events?
Alexandra Patrikiou: Oral narratives breathe life into historical events. They provide personal perspectives that can transcend dry statistics and governmental records. When people hear or read these stories, they often find a deeper connection to history, fostering empathy and understanding, which can alter their perception significantly.
Yiannis Papatheodorou: Exactly. These narratives challenge us to think critically about the events of the past and their ongoing influence. They force us to confront uncomfortable truths and, ideally, to engage in discussions about how we remember and what stories we choose to tell.
Editor: As we delve deeper into this topic, what do you hope the audience takes away from this event? How might it spark broader conversations about memory and identity in Greece today?
Alexandra Patrikiou: We hope attendees leave with a renewed awareness of the importance of memory in shaping culture and identity. By engaging with these stories, we can inspire a debate about how the past informs the present, particularly in terms of nationalism, identity, and historical justice.
Yiannis Papatheodorou: Yes, and we want to encourage visitors to reflect on their own narratives. Everyone has a story. How do our personal histories interact with the larger historical context? Are we doing enough to preserve them? This could open a vibrant public discourse about collective versus individual memory.
Editor: On that note, readers, what do you think about the importance of memory in shaping our understanding of history? Should we rely more on personal testimonies to understand the past, or do you think traditional historical accounts are sufficient? Join the discussion!
F the past and their influence on the present. They bridge generations by allowing individuals to share their lived experiences, ensuring that history is not just about what happened, but about how it felt, how it shaped lives, and how it continues to resonate today.
Editor: That’s a profound way of looking at it. Can you elaborate on some specific examples or themes that will be explored during the event?
Alexandra Patrikiou: Certainly! We will delve into both documented archives and personal accounts from 1940-1944, examining how these narratives reflect the struggles, resilience, and resistance of the Greek people. We will also highlight voices from different societal backgrounds and how their experiences intersected during this turbulent period.
Yiannis Papatheodorou: Furthermore, we plan to discuss the evolution of memory in Greece—the shift from a focus solely on historical milestones to a more intricate tapestry of human experiences. This multifaceted approach helps illuminate not just the events themselves, but the collective responsibility to remember and learn from them.
Editor: With the emphasis on the “culture of memory,” how important is it for younger generations to engage with these narratives?
Alexandra Patrikiou: It’s vital. Engaging with these narratives fosters a sense of identity and belonging among young people. By learning about the past from those who experienced it, they can develop a deeper understanding of their own cultural and historical context.
Yiannis Papatheodorou: Indeed, by connecting through stories, the younger generation can cultivate empathy and critical thinking. It also empowers them to reflect on how history shapes current social and political landscapes, encouraging active participation in ongoing discussions about remembrance and identity.
Editor: Thank you both for this enlightening discussion. I look forward to the event and the important conversations it will spark about the memories of that era.
Alexandra Patrikiou: Thank you for having us!
Yiannis Papatheodorou: Thank you! We hope to see many people at the Kostis Palamas House of Letters on October 23rd.
