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Place Identity and National Imagination in Postwar Taiwan: An Exploration of Cultural Politics and Identity Formation

Leslie Carter

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Published in Place Identity And National Imagination In Post War Taiwan (Routledge Research On Taiwan 15)

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Place Identity and National Imagination in Post war Taiwan (Routledge Research on Taiwan 15)

Place, Identity, and National Imagination in Post-war Taiwan (Routledge Research on Taiwan Series Book 15)

by Greater Than a Tourist

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4946 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	260 pages

This captivating book embarks on an insightful journey through the intricate tapestry of place identity and national imagination in postwar Taiwan, offering a nuanced understanding of the interplay between culture, politics, and identity formation. Taiwan, an island nation with a rich and complex history, provides a fertile ground for exploring the multifaceted relationship between place, people, and the narratives that shape their collective consciousness.

Through a rigorous examination of various cultural artifacts, including literature, film, and visual culture, the book unveils the ways in which place identities have been constructed, contested, and transformed in Taiwan's postwar era. It sheds light on the role of cultural production in shaping national narratives and fostering a sense of belonging among the Taiwanese people.

Theoretical Framework

Drawing upon interdisciplinary perspectives from geography, anthropology, cultural studies, and history, the book develops a sophisticated theoretical framework for analyzing place identity and national imagination. It engages with cutting-edge theories on space, place, and identity, providing a comprehensive understanding of the complex processes involved in the formation of collective identities and the construction of national narratives.

The book also incorporates insights from postcolonial and decolonial studies, examining the ways in which Taiwan's colonial past and its ongoing relationship with China have shaped its place identity and national imagination. By interrogating the power dynamics and discursive practices that have influenced Taiwan's cultural landscape, the book sheds light on the complexities of identity formation in a postcolonial context.

Case Studies

The book presents a series of rich case studies that delve into specific cultural artifacts and historical moments to illustrate the theoretical concepts discussed. These case studies offer a vivid and engaging exploration of the ways in which place identity and national imagination have manifested themselves in postwar Taiwan.

One case study examines the literary works of Taiwanese writer Wu Zhuoliu, whose novels and short stories capture the shifting landscapes of Taiwan's rural and urban environments, revealing the ways in which place and identity are intertwined. Another case study analyzes the film "A City of Sadness" by Hou Hsiao-hsien, exploring how the film depicts the trauma of Taiwan's White Terror period and its impact on collective memory and national identity.

Cultural Politics and Identity Formation

The book pays particular attention to the role of cultural politics in shaping place identity and national imagination. It examines the ways in which the state, cultural institutions, and various social groups have sought to promote particular narratives about Taiwan's past, present, and future, and how these narratives have shaped the collective consciousness of the Taiwanese people.

The book also explores the ways in which marginalized voices and alternative narratives have challenged dominant discourses, contributing to a more inclusive and dynamic understanding of Taiwanese identity. It sheds light on the ongoing debates and contestations over place identity and national imagination, highlighting the ways in which Taiwan's cultural landscape is constantly being negotiated and redefined.

"Place Identity and National Imagination in Postwar Taiwan" is an invaluable resource for scholars and students interested in cultural studies, history, geography, and Asian studies. It offers a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the complex relationship between place, identity, and imagination in postwar Taiwan, providing a valuable contribution to the ongoing discourse on national identity and cultural politics in a postcolonial context.

By unraveling the intricate connections between place, culture, and identity, this book not only sheds light on the unique case of Taiwan but also offers broader insights into the ways in which narratives of place and nationhood are constructed and contested in a rapidly changing world. It is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the complexities of Taiwanese identity and the broader implications of place and imagination in shaping national narratives.

Place, Identity, and National Imagination in Post-war Taiwan (Routledge Research on Taiwan Series Book 15)

by Greater Than a Tourist

4 out of 5