Myth, Identity and Ethnic Boundaries
Myth, Identity and Ethnic Boundaries

Summary/Abstract: Myth represents the narrative based on the particular historical event, which consists of both objective facts and fictitious elements. Th is phenomenon has an important social and political role, and represents the constituent part of ethnic and national identity. One of the basic functions of myth is its role in the strengthening of bonds within one ethnic or national community, and, at the same time, the establishment of the borders between that and other communities. Th e social and political power that some historical myths have especially gains importance in the periods of security crisis, when these narratives become the important part of ethnic mobilizations. Historical events, embodied in myths, are one of the most powerful “weapons” used by elites to manipulate masses, as well as to generate and control the process of ethnic mobilization. Members of the political elites who can revive the myth can also mobilize people, exclude those who do not belong to the group, suppress certain memories, establish solidarity and strengthen the hierarchy of statuses and values.

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