Queer Realms of Memory

ISBN 10: 1836245866 / ISBN 13: 9781836245865

Published by Liverpool University Press, GB, 2025

About this Item

Pierre Nora's concept "lieux de mémoire" (realms of memory) has become arguably the most significant academic point of reference when discussing processes of nation-building and their interconnectedness with history and collective memory. Although his theory has acquired popularity well beyond its application to the French context, his influential seven-volume series (1984-92) is not without its own shortcomings and failures, which have only occasionally been exposed over the last two decades. It is not until the recent publication of Postcolonial Realms of Memory (Liverpool University Press, 2020) that we see an expansive critique of Nora's own selective memory. Our project seeks to continue challenging Nora's approach and France's national narrative by providing space to examine queer lives, cultures and memories. We contend however that those related to queer experiences within France's collective memory have almost never been addressed. Queer Realms of Memory is the first book-length study to question Nora's lack of engagement with queer French and Francophone cultures and histories.

Seller Inventory # LU-9781836245865

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Queer Realms of Memory
• Publisher: Liverpool University Press, GB
• Publication Date: 2025
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 1836245866
• ISBN 13: 9781836245865
• Binding: Paperback
• Condition: New

About this title

Synopsis

Pierre Nora’s concept “lieux de mémoire” (realms of memory) has become arguably the most significant academic point of reference when discussing processes of nation-building and their interconnectedness with history and collective memory. Although his theory has acquired popularity well beyond its application to the French context, his influential seven-volume series (1984-92) is not without its own shortcomings and failures, which have only occasionally been exposed over the last two decades. It is not until the recent publication of Postcolonial Realms of Memory (Liverpool University Press, 2020) that we see an expansive critique of Nora’s own selective memory. Our project seeks to continue challenging Nora’s approach and France’s national narrative by providing space to examine queer lives, cultures and memories. We contend however that those related to queer experiences within France’s collective memory have almost never been addressed. Queer Realms of Memory is the first book-length study to question Nora’s lack of engagement with queer French and Francophone cultures and histories.

About the Authors

Siham Bouamer is Associate Professor of Global French at the University of Cincinnati.

Denis M. Provencher is Associate Dean for Interdisciplinary Affairs and Partnerships in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences and Professor of French & Francophone Studies at North Carolina State University.

Ryan K. Schroth is Assistant Professor of French Studies at Wake Forest University.