CEU Electronic Theses and Dissertations, 2023
| Author | Terrill, Kirsten |
|---|---|
| Title | Shaping Memory, Shaping Politics: Poland's Use of National Narratives in Response to the War in Ukraine |
| Summary | This thesis examines how Poland's reinterpretation of the past was politicized to establish itself as a leading force in the Western world in response to Putin's invasion of Ukraine. It investigates how the right-wing Polish government, the Law and Justice Party (PiS) utilizes national histories to cultivate a sense of victimhood and how various actors adopted this narrative in response to Putin's invasion, ultimately garnering support for Ukraine while undermining Russia. Through the application of Discourse-Historical Analysis (DHA) to eight public opinion pieces published in the online magazine Wszystko Co Najważniejsze, written by members of PiS and affiliates for an international audience, this research sheds light on the strategic use of Poland's national narratives for political gain.The research addresses two primary questions: (1) How are the historical narratives of Poland, promoted by PiS, utilized within the top-down discourse surrounding the invasion? (2) What forms of legitimation and argumentation are employed in this discourse? The analysis reveals how the top-down discourse strategically uses Poland's national narratives to present the country as the protector of Europe, the official authority on Russia, and a new Western leader, drawing on its history as a victim of Russian aggression. The study highlights the utilization of collective memory, national narratives, and victimization as theoretical frameworks, emphasizing how they are employed in the discourse. By leveraging these narratives, they justify Poland's unwavering support of Ukraine and attempt to persuade the international community to align with their rhetoric. The study argues that the ruling Law and Justice party, along with Poland, is depicted as defenders of Europe and authoritative figures on Russia, thereby reinforcing their position through historical legitimacy. |
| Supervisor | Mijić, Ana |
| Department | Nationalism Studies MA |
| Full text | https://www.etd.ceu.edu/2023/terrill_kirsten.pdf |
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