Appropriating History

This insightful volume examines how popular culture in Eastern Europe reinterprets history, influencing contemporary political narratives and collective memories in Appropriating History.

In Appropriating History, the authors explore how popular media shapes our understanding of historical narratives. The book delves into the ways in which dramatic events and significant disruptions of the 20th century are reinterpreted and represented through various forms of media, including films, television series, novels, comics, and video games. By examining case studies from Belarusian, Russian, and Ukrainian popular cultures, the contributors highlight the complex relationship between history and media, revealing how these narratives can serve both playful and neo-imperialist or nationalist purposes.

The contributors to Appropriating History provide a detailed analysis of how references to Soviet history are utilized in mainstream culture. These references not only offer role models and action patterns but also play a crucial role in justifying contemporary political and military actions. The authors argue that the appropriation of history in popular culture is not merely a reflection of the past but a dynamic process that influences present-day ideologies and societal norms.

Ultimately, Appropriating History sheds light on the intricate and often contentious dynamics of popular culture in Eastern Europe. It presents new insights into how collective imaginations of history are reconstructed and manipulated, emphasizing the importance of understanding these processes in a rapidly changing political landscape. This volume is essential for anyone interested in the intersections of history, media, and culture.