Between the Memory and Post-Memory of Communism in Romania

“The past goes on. So too does memory of it, though not always in circumstances of its own choosing. Between the Memory and Post-Memory of Communismin Romania not only extends our knowledge of the Romanian case but makes key contributions to our understanding of the ways memory changes over time; “Between the Memory and Post-Memory” there is indeed a complex space of negotiation. This volume should thus be essential reading for the entire field of memory studies.” - Jeffrey Olick, University of Virginia, USA, former co-president, Memory Studies Association.

“This book presents a stimulating and insightful collection of chapters by an interdisciplinary team of scholars. It examines issues of trauma, justice, and nostalgia within Romania’s efforts to come to terms with its problematic communist past. A notable contribution of this volume is the attention to both the multiple sites of the memory of communism (both material and digital), and the gaps and contradictions within the way that Romania has dealt with the memory of communism. It is essential reading for anybody seeking to understand contemporary Romania.” - Duncan Light, Bournemouth University, United Kingdom

“How is communism remembered by Romanians who never experienced it directly? In this edited volume, thirteen Romanian scholars respond to this question by showing how post-communist concerns and interests shape and reshape the memory of the past in that country. An impressive array of examples and case studies documents the “regimes of truths” discussed publicly, identifies continuities between communist and post-communist habits, and underscores conflicting and complementary patterns of remembrance that bring together personal positions, gamification of the past, and even fake information. A welcomed addition to the literature, this volume illuminates overlooked facets which suggest a memory turn.” - Lavinia Stan, St. Francis Xavier University, Canada