Prolegomena to a Paradigm: Narratives of Surrender

Author: Wagner-Pacifici R.

Source: Qualitative Sociology, Volume 24, Number 2, 2001 , pp. 269-281(13)

Publisher: Springer

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Abstract:

This article seeks to develop a paradigm for understanding the sociological meaning of narratives of surrender. Surrenders are boundary events in time and in space. Coming at the end of conflicts, surrenders are transitional and transformative occasions during which the emotional and symbolic landscapes of power are traced and highlighted. They mark the site of trauma and, depending on the manner in which they are accomplished, can alternately emphasize the degradation of the vanquished or the magnanimity of the victor. Surrenders are analyzed as simultaneously historical events, symbolic events, and political events.

Keywords: surrender; violence; boundaries

Language: English

Document Type: Regular paper

Affiliations: 1: Department of Sociology and Anthropology, Swarthmore College, Swarthmore, Pennsylvania 19081; rwagner1@swarthmore.edu

Publication date: 2001-01-01