‘Impossible is a fact’: Greek nationalism and international recognition in Euro 2004

Abstract

This article explores the ways in which the ‘nation’ is discussed in the press. Theoretically, it argues that the national ‘self’ emerges through dialogue with ‘others’. Reconsidering Anderson's argument, it suggests that national identity is often the product of international recognition that enables the national community to ‘imagine’ itself. Contextually, it looks at Greek newspaper commentary following the victory of the Greek football team in the Euro 2004 tournament. The Greek national ‘self’ emerged in such commentary in many ways: first, through the uses of its Christian and Hellenic heritage that European nations admire; second, through the projection of the ‘Greek nation’ outwards, as a diasporic community; and, third, through the construction of (racist) stereotyping of ‘Greek football enemies’ and ‘friends’. The article concludes by examining the role of international praise or criticism in the promotion of a Greek political agenda abroad.