Banalisation of Evil?
Abstract
After the fall of communism in 1989, Poland initially removed or renamed symbols of Soviet domination. In recent years, however, elements of the communist past have been reappropriated for tourism. This chapter focuses on Warsaw’s evolving relationship with its communist heritage from rejection to commodification. It explores how nostalgia, cultural reinterpretation, and entrepreneurial ventures have transformed formerly taboo symbols into marketable experiences. The chapter critically examines whether this trend trivialises or reframes a painful past.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Memory
Trauma
and Commemoration
Eastern European Communism and Reforms
Polish-Jewish Holocaust Memory Studies
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Amsterdam University Press eBooks
- Publication date
- 1 January 2026
- Language
- EN
- Document type
- Book chapter