Exploring Memory of Place and Place Identity Through Narrative Inquiry: A Study of Partisans’ Square in Uzice, Serbia

Abstract

This study is an analysis of the relations between memory, place, and identity through the narratives of local citizens about Partisans' Square located in the city of Uzice, Serbia. It examines twenty life-stories connected to this specific public area. Participants' testimonials are not treated as a source for the construction of a historical narrative, but rather as representations and memories of various events that took place in and around this location in the second half of the 20 th and beginning of the 21 st century. This study considers how these eyewitnesses represent turbulent local history in the present and examines the role of place in memory construction, the role of memory in place construction and the impact of these processes on identity formation. The dissertation argues that the urban landscapes and architecture in general, represent significant sites of memory that not only trigger memory, but are also constantly manipulated to shape it. Furthermore, it examines how the past, present, memory, and identity are tied to structures of power. This study engages in an extensive review of literature on memory, space and place, history and memory, life story narratives, and the interaction of social groups, generations, and politics. It synthesizes and uses all these elements to examine citizens' personal representations of events that took place on Partisans' Square in order to understand better the role of place in memory and identity construction. iii DEDICATION For my father, Dragoslav To the members of my graduate committee: First of all, I am grateful to my advisor Dr. Deborah Boone for her relentless support, encouragement and uncompromising dedication to this project. Her optimism and enthusiasm guided me through the toughest times. I will be forever indebted to her for the countless hours devoted to discussing, reading, and editing my work. To Dr. Malayna Bernstein for generously sharing her vast research knowledge and experience. She fiercely aided me through my periods of doubts and self-distrust. I could not finish dissertation work without her. I further want to thank other dissertation committee members, Dr. Joshua Arthurs, Dr. Harry Boone and Professor Ron Dulaney, for encouragement and support to pursue my true research passion.