Genealogies of Memory 2025 What remains from the Second World War? Remnants, Memories and Narratives Revisited

1. Theoretical reflection on the materiality of memory: How does the past persist in the present through physical remnants? This theme will explore the theoretical foundations of how memory is embedded in material traces and how these remnants continue to shape contemporary perceptions of history.

2. Rethinking post-war memory cultures from the present: This section explores the constantly moving, changing nature of memory in terms of contemporary challenges. It investigates how new geopolitical and civilizational changes, as well as new forms of violence particularly Russia’s war against Ukraine—, have affected the memory of World War II. How have these developments reshaped or corrected cultural patterns and perceptions of the “other”? Furthermore, how do emerging digital technologies and unregulated social media influence the ways in which WWII is remembered and commemorated?

3. Case studies linking theory and memory practices: Presentations in this section will delve into specific examples of symbolic and literal ruins of World War II, contested narratives about war, the intergenerational transmission of complex memories and trauma etc., and the influence of the war on culture and language. What new approaches have emerged for processing and coming to terms with 1945 and the post-war era? How has WWII’s legacy remained tangible across various domains of life?
 

To apply, please, send the following documents by email to the address: genealogies@enrs.eu
The application deadline is 11 May 2025

• Abstract (maximum 300 words)
• Brief biographical note (up to 200 words)
• Scan/photo of the signed Consent Clause

Applicants will be notified of the results in early June 2025. Written draft papers (2.000–2.500 words) should be submitted by 25 August 2025.

The conference language is English. There is no conference fee.