Embattled Memories
by Suhi Choi
"Contested Meanings in Korean War Memorials"
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Embattled Memories by Suhi Choi
Details
War:
Korean War
Perspective:
Researcher
True Story:
Yes
Biography:
No
Region:
Asia
Page Count:
215
Published Date:
2014
ISBN13:
9780874179378
Description
Main Themes and Topics
Embattled Memories by Suhi Choi delves into the complex web of collective memory surrounding the Korean War, often referred to as the “forgotten war.” The book meticulously explores how this war is remembered through five distinct memory sites both in the United States and South Korea. Choi addresses the dynamics between state-sanctioned narratives and countermemories, showcasing how these memory sites serve as arenas for competing recollections. Through examples such as the PBS documentary Battle for Korea and the Korean War Memorial in Salt Lake City, alongside the statue of General Douglas MacArthur in Incheon, South Korea, Choi offers a nuanced examination of how collective memory is actively shaped and reshaped over time. Additionally, the book tackles diverse accounts of the No Gun Ri massacre, underscoring the conflicting narratives that vie for legitimacy in the public consciousness.
Writing Style and Tone
Suhi Choi adopts an analytical yet accessible writing style, making complex theoretical concepts in memory studies and public history comprehensible to a broad audience. Her tone is scholarly yet engaging, effectively balancing academic rigor with compelling narrative storytelling. The integration of lively examples through memory sites ensures that readers remain engaged, while her careful analysis lends authority to her assertions.
Brief Summary
Embattled Memories navigates the intricate landscape of how the Korean War is remembered across different cultural and political contexts. Through five distinct memory sites, Choi illustrates how these venues host contention between official narratives and alternative memories. Particularly noteworthy is her examination of the No Gun Ri massacre, where she juxtaposes contemporaneous journalism with survivors' oral histories to reveal a multiplicity of perspectives often sidelined in mainstream discourse. Choi's work emphasizes the dynamic and disputatious nature of memory, highlighting its role as a battleground for historical narratives.
