Ethnocentrism & Nationalism : From Greek Stasis to Modern Intolerance

Ethnocentrism & Nationalism : From Greek Stasis to Modern Intolerance

Created by Sofia Ruvalcaba

Ethnocentrism, the judgment of other cultures based on a perceived notion of one's own culture, is a concept rooted in nearly all surviving populations since nomadic times. Nationalism, the association of an individual with its nation's best interest (sometimes to the detriment of others) is something intrinsically related to this concept. This strong sense of being oftentimes breeds intolerance and a subsequent belief of superiority that generates widespread civil strife. The purpose of this exhibit is to acknowledge and learn from entirely different nations, as well as their populations. Specifically, nations with prevalent examples of ethnocentrism both in history and literature. In doing this, the hope is to understand the civil strife that is generated by these nations when the citizens begin to feel strong (or weaker) connections to their nation and its cultures.

Consequently, the research implies that ethnonationalism is deeply ingrained within most societies and is therefore inevitable due to human nature. Whether between nations, regions, or within a singular nation, intolerance is rooted in the belief that any culture can be superior to another. Despite this, it is the responsibility of both the government and citizens to acknowledge these prejudices so that they can be challenged at every turn, thus pushing the globe toward greater equality. Without proactivity and recognition of historical inadequacies, inequity will continue to exist.

The texts centered in this research are as follows:

The Burial at Thebes is a version of Sophocles' Antigone performed as a play, written by Seamus Haney in 2004. A Narrative of the Captivity and Restoration of Mrs. Mary Rowlandson (The Sovereignty and Goodness of God) was an autobiographical captivity narrative, composed and published in 1682 following Rowlandson's time in Indigenous captivity. Finally, Home Fire, written by Kamila Shamsie, is another version of Antigone told through the perspective of British-Muslims after 9/11.

To follow along, begin with the yellow waypoints in Ancient Greece. Proceed in accordance with chronological order as defined on the timeline.

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