The discursive construction of collective narratives on Portuguese national identity: homogeneity or diversity?

Abstract

Mainstream conceptions of the “authentic” or “real” Portugal are now so naturalized in national discourse that many of the socio-historical contexts of their discursive construction have been erased from people’s collective memory (-ies). This paper presents an overview of the prominent collective narratives and memories in the Portuguese context, highlighting salient historical events that shaped them, such as the 1974 revolution which was a watershed moment from which all current narratives on national identity construct their major reference. It briefly covers 19th century historiography, the Estado Novo’s concept of Portugal’s “mission in the colonies”, the revolution’s ideological break with the old regime, and the major myths of homogeneity and self-stereotyping. Thus, contemporary discourses on Portuguese national identity are considered in the light of social memory and diachronic change.