It has often been assumed that Europeans invented and had the exclusive monopoly over courtly and romantic love, commonly considered to be the highest form of relations between men and women. This view was particularly prevalent between 1770 and the mid-twentieth century, but was challenged in the 1960s...
The Cultural Experience of the Turin Working Class
Focusing on the oral life histories of approximately 70 men and women workers born between the late 19th century and 1920, this book provides a rich tapestry of personal experiences and insights. It captures the diverse backgrounds and challenges faced by these individuals, offering a unique perspective on their lives and the socio-economic conditions of their time. Through their stories, the book highlights themes of resilience, community, and the evolution of work in a changing world.
Challenging the Eurocentric view of courtly and romantic love, the book examines how Europeans historically monopolized this concept, intertwining it with their self-image and notions of marriage. It highlights the shift in perspective from the 1960s, recognizing romantic love as a universal sentiment present across cultures. By exploring the complex relationship between identity and emotions, the work invites readers to reconsider the historical narratives surrounding love and its cultural significance.
Exploring the interplay between memory and forgetfulness in twentieth-century Europe, this work delves into women's struggles for recognition amidst the decline of the universal subject. It highlights the intertwining of utopia and desire during the 1968 movements, focusing on the activism of students, women, and workers. The book offers a critical examination of how these themes shaped societal transformations and the quest for identity during a period of significant upheaval.
Exploring the intersection of gender and memory, this volume features diverse contributions from various disciplines, including history, sociology, and literature. It addresses the complexities of autobiographical testimony and narrative, highlighting the significance of both spoken and written forms. The book aims to engage scholars and practitioners by examining how gender influences personal and collective memories across cultures.
The events of August 1991 in Moscow highlighted the critical need to comprehend Europe's historical complexities. This book delves into the intricate past of the continent, exploring the political, social, and cultural factors that have shaped its trajectory. Through a detailed analysis, it connects historical events to contemporary issues, offering insights into the ongoing impact of Europe's history on current affairs. The narrative emphasizes the urgency of understanding these dynamics in light of recent geopolitical changes.
The book delves into the political and social upheavals of 1968 in Italy, capturing the struggles of diverse groups such as students and workers. Luisa Passerini intertwines her autobiography with oral histories and sociological insights, creating a rich tapestry of lived experiences from that era. Through psychoanalysis, she explores the hopes and contradictions of her generation, revealing their aspirations for a new world and relationships amidst rebellion. This narrative not only documents history but also prompts reflection on how we reconstruct the past.