Subject Area: European Studies
This course can also be studied in the following specialisations: History; German Studies

‘Confronting the Past’ is a continuing social and political challenge for all societies, as evidenced in Australia. In Europe, it is perhaps particularly so given the turmoil, the catastrophes, and the profound socio-economic and political changes of twentieth-century European history. This applies notably to the consequences and legacies of World War II and of Nazi and Fascist rule, especially the experiences of the Holocaust and German occupation, but also of Soviet-style socialism. Facing the destruction wrought by war, by totalitarian regimes and dictatorships has been and continues to be a confronting experience for ordinary citizens as much as for politicians, public intellectuals, artists and writers. The course is structured chronologically as well as thematically; its main aim and purpose are an investigation of public and cultural discourses. It considers and analyses representative attempts at ‘confronting the past’ as part of a process of public political culture and identity formation in contemporary European societies.