Renan, Qu’est-ce qu’une nation? Flashcards
What are the main themes discussed in Renan’s “Qu’est-ce qu’une nation?”
The main themes include the nation, national identity, conceptions of history (forgetting historical errors), and Europe.
According to Renan, what is the significance of forgetting in the formation of a nation, and what historical event does he use as an example?
Renan argues that it is necessary to forget social distinctions and past offenses for the formation of a nation. For example, he suggests forgetting the Saint Bartholomew’s Day Massacre because it highlights division among the people of the nation.
What does Renan assert about the basis of a nation in terms of race, language, and geography?
Renan contends that a nation is not based on race, language, or geographical regions. He emphasizes, “l’homme n’est esclave ni de sa race, ni de sa langue, ni de sa religion, ni du cours des fleuves, ni de la direction des chaînes de montagnes” (29).
According to Renan, what is the view of nations in terms of their eternity, and what does he suggest might replace them?
Renan states that nations are not eternal, and he suggests that a European confederation might replace them in the future.
How does Renan define a nation, and what metaphor does he use to describe it?
Renan defines a nation as “une âme,” a spiritual principle. He uses the metaphor of a soul to describe the collective spirit of a nation.
What are the two principles that Renan states a nation is based on?
A nation is based on two principles: collective memory that emphasizes the glorious moments of the nation and forgets less glorious ones (as mentioned under “l’oubli”), and the current consent or desire to be part of the nation.
