London and the Politics of Memory ― In the Shadow of Big Ben

This book provides an original, impassioned exploration of memory studies and the uses of the past in the present. It capitalises on London’s global appeal and Big Ben’s iconic status. Moving beyond this familiar façade the reader will journey around the hidden histories of Westminster’s streets, squares and statues. This tangible heritage supports a diversity of contested memories. The rationale for this approach is that, by linking theory with empirical examples, it becomes possible to tackle complex issues in a grounded, accessible manner. Readers will be encouraged to use this case study as a framework for addressing the politics of memory in their own lives as well as in other places, not just in Britain but around the world. This book will be of interest to scholars and students from a wide variety of disciplines including, but not limited to, culture and media studies, English literature, film and television studies, global studies, heritage studies, history, and human geography.

Stuart Burch is Lecturer at Nottingham Trent University, UK and currently acting subject leader BA History. He teaches a range of modules in Heritage Studies, Museum Studies and Public History at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels.