World War II as an Identity Project

Main Themes and Topics

World War II as an Identity Project by Oleksandr Melnyk delves into the intricate relationship between history, legitimacy, and violence in the context of nation and state-building in contemporary Ukraine during and after World War II. The book probes the role of the Soviet state, examining its institutions and exploring how they interacted with other states and rival political movements, which in turn influenced Soviet policies.

Melnyk's study shifts the focus from conventional narratives limited to Soviet political and cultural elites. Instead, it presents a broader spectrum of practices, organizations, and actors engaged in power struggles and knowledge production about historical memory. It uniquely highlights the contributions of groups often overlooked in Soviet memory discourse, including NKVD officers, Soviet archivists, Ukrainian nationalists, Nazi collaborators, and former partisans in German-occupied territories. The book emphasizes the complexity underlying nation-shaping processes and restores a sense of agency to some of these seemingly powerless figures.

Writing Style and Tone

Melnyk's writing is analytical and meticulously researched, balancing scholarly rigor with accessibility. The author employs a methodological approach that incorporates a wide array of sources and perspectives, allowing for a multifaceted examination of the historical context. The tone is measured and academic, suitable for readers interested in a comprehensive analysis of Soviet and Eastern European history, particularly during a tumultuous period marked by competing narratives and political struggles.

Brief Summary

World War II as an Identity Project offers a nuanced exploration of the dynamics between state power and historical narrative construction in Ukraine during World War II and its aftermath. Through a detailed examination of the Soviet state's institutions and their interactions with both internal and external actors, Melnyk sheds light on the complex processes of memory shaping and nation-building. The book illustrates how diverse groups contributed to the Soviet memory discourse, challenging traditional understandings and revealing the intricate fabric of historical identity politics in the region.