Abstract
This article examines Greek perceptions and politics related to place names in the early 20th century. Although the tendency to rename places was already strong during the War of Independence in the 1820s, it finally became a systematic process in June 1909, when the “Toponyms of Greece Committee” was established and staffed by distinguished academics. The case of Harvati-Mycenae, though not unique in modern Greek history, presents an indicative example of the interaction between administrative expediency and national aspirations in the reshaping of the map of Greece. The history of this small village in Argolida [Argolída], which in 1916 was renamed from Harvati to Mycenae, is part of the long-lasting practice of changing names and adapting geography to the political and ideological necessities of the state. We argue that this process was an integral part of a ruling ideology that stressed continuity and kinship of the modern Greeks with an alleged glorious national past.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.