Nationalism through state constructed national symbols. The case of the national anthems (original) (raw)

The International Journal of Interdisciplinary Social Sciences: Annual Review

Abstract

National anthems possibly provide the strongest, clearest statement of national identity. In essence they serve as modern totems that bear a special relationship to the nations they represent, distinguishing them from one another and reaffirming their identity boundaries. National anthems transfer a message that is purposively, meticulously constructed, with leaders of national governments consciously selecting its elements. In this paper the content and the “hidden” meanings of 18 national hymns (Russia, Argentina, Austria, Mexico, Canada, Greece, Cuba, Bulgaria, Germany, F.Y.R.O.M., U.K., Serbia, Romania, Albania, Australia, U.S.A., France and Belgium) will be analysed. An attempt will be made to investigate the nationalistic, propagandistic and sometimes the chauvinistic elements they include. The content analysis method we will be employed to identify the constituents, that unite individuals under the same flag, oath, anthem, and so on. These encompass a general feeling of belon...

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