'How we remember war and violence: theory and practice’ combines ground-breaking research into memory theory with practical case studies. This interactive course encourages learners to consider how we recall conflict and to discover a different way of remembering violence and wars in the 20th century. It compares a new approach to remembering, ‘agonistic memory,’ with existing memory models and learners are encouraged to critically engage with case studies that test this agonistic memory model. It is designed to fit easily with other commitments, requiring only 1 hour of engagement per week, for 4 weeks.
Dr David Clarke, Senior Lecturer in PoLIS and responsible for the MOOC writes, "Our understanding of the past is key to helping us make sense of the present and our future. With competing memories clashing ever more strongly in Europe and around the world, these questions seem more important than ever. I’m really excited that we can share the expertise of such a diverse and engaging group of researchers with participants in this MOOC. Their expertise will help us to make sense of why the past matters to us now and how we can deal with controversial memories."
The course will be of interest to members of the general public, academics in the fields of politics, languages, international studies, memory studies, heritage studies, and tourism. It is also designed for policymakers who are responsible for funding and coordinating commemorative activities, and civil society organisations in the field of memory and commemoration, and museum professionals - including directors, curators, conservators, and educators.
The course begins on 24 September. Find out more and register here.