Oral History - A Web of Relationships

Explore the nuanced perspective on oral history presented by renowned scholar Alessandro Portelli in this 16-minute TEDx talk. Delve into the concept of history as a study of memory, challenging the notion of objective historical descriptions. Discover how examining individual and collective memories can add depth to our understanding of historical events. Learn about Portelli's unique approach to oral history, which values the slips, associations, and even mistakes in witness accounts as valuable insights into the meaning of events. Gain an understanding of the intimate link between oral histories and collective memories in our "age of memory." Examine the idea that in oral history, people are both sources and subjects, offering a more human-centered approach to historical study. Benefit from Portelli's extensive experience in American literature, culture, oral history, and musicology, as well as his work with the Circolo Gianni Bosio and various global universities. Consider the implications of this perspective on historical memory for our understanding of the past and its relevance to the present.