About the book
When Theatres of Memory was first published in 1994, it transformed the debate about what is to be considered history and questioned the role of “heritage” that lies at the heart of every Western nation’s obsession with the past. Today, in the age of Downton Abbey and Mad Men, we are once again conjuring historical fictions to make sense of our everyday lives.
In this remarkable book, Samuel looks at the many different ways we use the ‘unofficial knowledge’ of the past. Considering such varied areas as the fashion for “retrofitting,” the rise of family history, the joys of collecting old photographs, the allure of reenactment societies and televised adaptations of Dickens, Samuel transforms our understanding of the uses of history. He shows us that history is a living practice, something constantly being reassessed in the world around us.
Editions of Theatres of Memory
- Hardcover
- ISBN 9780860912095
- Paperback
- ISBN 9781844678693
- Paperback
- ISBN 9781859840771
- EBook
- ISBN 9781844679355
Read an Excerpt
When Theatres of Memory was first published in 1994, it transformed the debate about what is to be considered history and questioned the role of “heritage” that lies at the heart of every Western nation’s obsession with the past. Today, in the age of Downton Abbey and Mad Men, we are once again conjuring historical fictions to make sense of our everyday lives.
In this remarkable book, Samuel looks at the many different ways we use the ‘unofficial knowledge’ of the past. Considering such varied areas as the fashion for “retrofitting,” the rise of family history, the joys of collecting old photographs, the allure of reenactment societies and televised adaptations of Dickens, Samuel transforms our understanding of the uses of history. He shows us that history is a living practice, something constantly being reassessed in the world around us.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Theatres of Memory about?
When Theatres of Memory was first published in 1994, it transformed the debate about what is to be considered history and questioned the role of “heritage” that lies at the heart of every Western nation’s obsession with the past. Today, in the age of Downton Abbey and Mad Men, we are once again conjuring historical fictions to make sense of our everyday lives.
In this remarkable book, Samuel looks at the many different ways we use the ‘unofficial knowledge’ of the past. Considering such varied areas as the fashion for “retrofitting,” the rise of family history, the joys of collecting old photographs, the allure of reenactment societies and televised adaptations of Dickens, Samuel transforms our understanding of the uses of history. He shows us that history is a living practice, something constantly being reassessed in the world around us.
What core themes, tropes, or subjects are explored in Theatres of Memory?
History and Archaeology > History > European history
Where can I read a sample of Theatres of Memory?
You can read an official preview of the few pages here https://www.book2look.com/book/9780860912095
Who is/are the Author/s of the book Theatres of Memory?
Raphael Samuel
Who is the Publisher of the book Theatres of Memory?
Verso Books
What are the ISBN numbers for the physical and digital editions?
Theatres of Memory is available as hardcover(ISBN 9780860912095) and paperback(ISBN 9781844678693) and paperback(ISBN 9781859840771) and ebook(ISBN 9781844679355)
Where can I buy Theatres of Memory online or support local independent bookshops?
You can buy Theatres of Memory from below
Where can I buy Theatres of Memory?