Trauma and Collective Memory in Sinan Antoon's The Baghdad Eucharist

Autor: Ahmed Seif Eddine NEFNOUF, Boubaker MOHREM, Nadia MANSOURI & Walid MESSAOUDI
Jazyk: German<br />English<br />Spanish; Castilian<br />French
Rok vydání: 2024
Předmět:
Zdroj: Akofena, Vol 04, Iss 11 (2024)
Druh dokumentu: article
ISSN: 2706-6312
2708-0633
DOI: 10.48734/akofena.n011v4.06.2023
Popis: Abstract: This paper examines the portrayal of trauma and collective memory in The Baghdad Eucharist, a remarkable novel set in Iraq. It argues that our memory often repeats itself when we fail to grasp its true significance. The aftermath of the postwar period in Iraq, particularly after 2003, was characterized by profound psychological traumas experienced both individually and collectively. Youssef and Maha, the main characters, bear the psychological scars of a tragic event deeply rooted in the sensitive aspects of Iraq's history and culture. In his novel, Sinan Antoon focuses on depicting Iraq's transformation and the invasion of sectarian war that engulfs the nation. In The Baghdad Eucharist, he chooses to write about the 2010 bombing of a church, a devastating incident resulting in numerous deaths. Drawing from the theory of trauma, this paper analyzes the presentation of trauma through the lens of Youssef and Maha, two characters profoundly affected by the traumatic memory. Youssef and Maha's experiences reflect the enduring impact of the witnessed event. The paper seeks to unravel the intricate dynamics of collective memory following significant historical events by exploring their psychological wounds and the subsequent manifestations of trauma. By examining the complexities of trauma and collective memory, this analysis of The Baghdad Eucharist contributes to a deeper understanding of the lasting consequences of war and violence on individuals and societies. It sheds light on the interplay between personal trauma and the broader cultural and historical contexts. Ultimately, this paper underscores the significance of acknowledging and comprehending traumatic experiences, as they shape our collective memory and influence our perception of the world. Keywords: The Baghdad Eucharist, Sinan Antoon, Iraq Trauma, Sectarian war, Arab American Literature, violence.
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