This course is concerned with the cultural politics of memory and trauma. Whose memories are sought, believed and commemorated in the public sphere? What problems do traumatic events present for those attempting to commemorate or represent them? Is trauma a useful cross-cultural concept? We will begin by tracing the history of the concept of trauma in psychoanalysis, medicine and popular culture. Next, students will be introduced to theories of memory and trauma drawn from cultural studies, anthropology, history, psychoanalysis, and feminist theory. We will study the cultural politics of trauma and memory in relation to two events - the Holocaust and the Stolen Generations. In particular, we will consider the relationship between trauma, history and mourning, the role of public memorials, and the problem of "forgetting". Texts for study will include autobiographies, films, novels, poetry, testimonials, media texts and political essays.

3,000-4,000 words of written work, and tutorial participation.

Offered in alternate years
20 hours of lectures and 12 hours of tutorial, plus film screenings

GEND1002 Reading Popular Culture: An Introduction to Cultural Studies recommended or with the permission of the Convener.

WOMS2021 Trauma, Memory and Culture

Antze, Paul, and Michael Lambek, eds, Tense Past: Cultural Essays in Trauma and Memory, New York: Routledge, 1996