Heritage has burgeoned over the past quarter of a century from a small élite preoccupation into a major popular crusade. Everything from Disneyland to the Holocaust Museum, from the Balkan wars to the Northern Irish troubles, from Elvis memorabilia to the Elgin Marbles bears the marks of the cult of heritage. In this acclaimed book David Lowenthal explains the rise of this new obsession with the past and examines its power for both good and evil.
Contents
Introduction; 1. Heritage ascendant; 2. Personal legacies; 3. Collective legacies; 4. Heritage assailed; 5. The purpose and practice of history; 6. The purpose of heritage; 7. The practice of heritage; 8. Being first; 9. Being innate; 10. Rivalry and restitution.
Reviews
‘The invention of heritage is a fascinating story, and Lowenthal tells it with vigour, style and a Balzacian relish for detail … His racy style keeps us constantly on the move.’ Roger Scruton, The Times
‘Timely and provocative … brilliant and stimulating pyrotechnic.’ Roy Strong, The Sunday Times
‘A wealth of stories both true and amusing.’ Grey Gowrie, The Daily Telegraph
‘Perceptive and provocative … explores the many perversities of the heritage cult - and its absolute irresistibility.’ Michael Kerrigan, The Scotsman
‘Leads a brilliant dance through this jungle of cultural confusion, from the Holocaust Museum to Elvis Presley’s shrine in Graceland.’ Candida Lycett Green, The Sunday Express
‘Brave, piquant and impressively broad-ranging.’ Linda Colley, The Times Literary Supplement
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