The Mediterranean as a Source of Cultural Criticism

This volume examines the Mediterranean's role as a cultural, religious, and economic resource, highlighting its historical and contemporary significance in shaping identities and narratives.

In The Mediterranean as a Source of Cultural Criticism, the essays delve into the historical pathways through which the Mediterranean has been viewed as a rich cultural, religious, and economic resource. The authors explore how these diverse elements are interconnected and how they have shaped perceptions over time. Rather than adopting a purely 'imagological' or 'representational' perspective, the contributors examine the complex interplay between cultural attributions and real-world encounters, illustrating how these dynamics influence both the Mediterranean and those who engage with it.

The essays focus particularly on the 19th and 20th centuries, yet they resonate with contemporary issues, offering insights into the Mediterranean's role in today's global landscape. The desire for a Mediterranean 'Otherness,' as reflected in German literature, serves as a focal point, demonstrating how cultural narratives are constructed and challenged through empirical experiences. This exploration highlights the ongoing relevance of the Mediterranean in understanding cultural identity and exchange.

Through their analyses, the authors reveal the dualities of provinciality and universality present within the Mediterranean region. The ongoing connectivity and fragmentation of this area serve as a foundation for the European narrative, influencing a myriad of historical interpretations. The Mediterranean as a Source of Cultural Criticism ultimately invites readers to reconsider the cultural significance of the Mediterranean in both historical and modern contexts.