BOOK

Cultural memory and early civilization : writing, remembrance, and political imagination

Assmann, Jan

2011

Overview

\"Now available to an English-speaking audience, this book presents a groundbreaking theoretical analysis of memory, identity, and culture. It investigates how cultures remember, arguing that human memory exists and is communicated in two ways, namely inter-human interaction and in external systems of notation, such as writing, which can span generations. Dr. Assmann defines two theoretical concepts of cultural memory, differentiating between the long-term memory of societies, which can span up to 3,000 years, and communicative memory, which is typically restricted to 80-100 years. He applies this theoretical framework to case studies of four specific cultures, illustrating the function contexts and specific achievements, including the state, international law, religion, and science. Ultimately, his research demonstrates that memory is not simply a means of retaining information, but rather a force that can shape cultural identity and allow cultures to respond creatively to both daily challenges and catastrophic changes\"-- Provided by publisher.

• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Subject: Civilization, Ancient. / Memory Social aspects History. / Collective memory History. / Group identity History. / Interpersonal communication History. / Written communication History. / Politics and culture History. / HISTORY - Ancient - General / Egypt Civilization. / Israel Civilization. / Greece Civilization.
• ISBN: 9780521763813, 0521763819, 9780521188029, 0521188024

Item info:

1 item available

1 item total in all locations

Holdings :

Call Number	Copies	Material	Location
CB311.A75 2011	1	BOOK	AUTOSTORE