Elegy Function explores how elegies, traditionally viewed as expressions of mourning, actively shape public memory and collective grief. The book delves into the evolution of elegies, revealing how they've transformed from personal lamentations into formal public rituals. It argues that these poems are not passive reflections of sorrow but active agents in constructing meaning and memory. Elegies, for example, often help consolidate social cohesion after national tragedies.
The book traces the historical development of the elegy, examining its classical origins and subsequent transformations in various social and political contexts. It analyzes specific case studies of elegies written in response to significant historical events, showcasing how they legitimize political narratives and commemorate historical figures. By exploring the interrelation of elegies with national identity, the book highlights their role in reinforcing cultural values.
The study progresses across chapters, starting with core concepts and historical evolution, moving to case studies, and concluding with the implications for contemporary mourning practices.
