Module Overview

This module considers 20th century Austrian identity and the role of historical consciousness in shaping and mediating Austrian post-war self-understanding and characterisation as a ‘,victim’ of National Socialist aggression. The module will examine dominant narratives in post-war Austrian historiography and consider political and societal factors that have informed and challenged memory debates in Austria since. In Germany and elsewhere, efforts to confront the crimes and legacy of the Third Reich intensified in the late 1960’s; in Austria, more intense scrutiny was delayed until the 1980’s. Austria’s exploration of its National Socialist legacy is contextualised as a European-wide phenomenon and the specificity of Austria’s experience and stages of remembrance are considered in relative terms.

Students will be encouraged to explore representations in film that engage with the themes outlined and to consider how wider cultural landscapes in Austria – sites, memorials and commemorative acts and events - continue to challenge and construct collective memory. The module is suited to final year and postgraduate students providing opportunity for more in-depth learning, while enhancing the critical & analytical skills students will have developed over the course of their studies.