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A comment on Who did the Anglo-Saxons think they were?. Parent comment

Re:Who did the Anglo-Saxons think they were? by stareatgoats on Thursday February 18, 2021 @02:55AM (#26177188)
Yes, many games, TV-series as well as films ('the Dig') seem to pop up signaling a renewed interest in this period. As a Scandinavian it is with mixed pride and horror that the savage war-loving nature of our past is uncovered, which at the same time contributed to the early formation of many of the most influential kingdoms in history after the fall of the Roman Empire. Such as England (the Anglo-Saxons, and later the Vikings), Russia (the Rus), and Spain (the Visigoths). Not to mention the mark that the Normans made in early Europe.

This influence is a tribute to the power of war and plunder and the renewed interest in the time period is probably in part related to the current zeitgeist in which chauvinism and the rattling of swords is once more on the agenda. Given the immense firepower at our disposal currently we should perhaps better try and counter with stories about the benefits of peace, too.

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Re:Who did the Anglo-Saxons think they were? by checkyoursudo on Thursday February 18, 2021 @03:34AM (#26177408)
As also a Scandinavian, I find that I have neither much pride nor horror. I guess I am fascinated by our history without wanting to emulate it. Similarly, I am an adamant pacifist, but I nevertheless love WWII histories, novels, and movies. I don't want there to be another world war, but I am still fascinated by the ones we've had.

I do empathize with your feelings. I think they are natural of course. I do however wonder if there ever really was a time when chauvinism and sabre-rattling were not on the agenda? Maybe not to the same degree, perhaps. I do think the "better angels of our nature" trend will continue over the very long term. There are always rough periods.

Ultimately, I agree fully with your prescription. Those of us who love peace should promote peace. I think we can do so while acknowledging and exploring the dark sides of history. You know, the learn from our mistakes adage and all that.

[ Parent | on HN ]
Re:Who did the Anglo-Saxons think they were? by Aloha on Friday February 19, 2021 @01:29AM (#26190358)
War can be a necessary evil. But even when needed it's still evil.

What often appeals about WWII is one side was clearly good, and one side clearly not, that moral clarity is often lacking today.

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