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The Holocaust Memorial Museum

Sacred Secular Space

Avril Alba author

Format:Hardback

Publisher:Palgrave Macmillan

Published:5th Oct '15

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The Holocaust Memorial Museum cover

This book examines the evolution of Jewish symbols in memorial museums, revealing how sacred contexts shape Holocaust memory and its interpretations.

In The Holocaust Memorial Museum, the author delves into the intricate relationship between ancient Jewish symbols and their modern representations within memorial sites. By exploring the evolution of rituals, archetypes, and narratives, the book provides a comprehensive analysis of how these elements are employed to convey the significance of Holocaust memory. The transformation of these symbols is not merely a historical recount; it reflects the ongoing dialogue between past and present, sacred and secular.

The narrative emphasizes how memorial museums often envelop the secular history of the Holocaust in a sacred context. This approach generates complex and sometimes conflicting interpretations of Holocaust memory. By presenting the secular history in a reverential light, these institutions seek to honor the victims while simultaneously inviting visitors to reflect on broader themes of memory, identity, and the implications of historical trauma.

Ultimately, The Holocaust Memorial Museum serves as a critical examination of how collective memory is shaped and reshaped through the lens of cultural symbols. It invites readers to consider the powerful role that these memorials play in societal remembrance and the challenges they face in conveying a multifaceted historical narrative. Through this exploration, the book contributes to a deeper understanding of the significance of Holocaust memory in contemporary society.

“Alba’s book is an outstanding contribution to the discussion of what can and ought to follow the imminent arrival of the post-participant stage in Holocaust memorialization.” (Arthur Shostak, The European Legacy, Vol. 22 (5), March, 2017) 

ISBN: 9781137451354

Dimensions: unknown

Weight: 4385g

252 pages

1st ed. 2015