The Shifting Sands of Monumentality: How We Remember, and Why It’s Changing
José Luis González Macías’s work, particularly Efímero inventario de ídolos (Ephemeral Inventory of Idols), isn’t just a catalog of statues; it’s a timely exploration of how societies grapple with memory, power, and the very act of commemoration. The book, following his earlier Breve atlas de los faros del fin del mundo (Brief Atlas of Lighthouses at the End of the World), highlights a growing global trend: the re-evaluation – and often, the removal – of public monuments. This isn’t a new phenomenon, but its scale and intensity are accelerating, driven by evolving social consciousness and a desire to confront uncomfortable histories.
The Rise of ‘De-monumenting’ and the Contested Public Space
The toppling of statues, as Macías documents with meticulous detail, is no longer confined to revolutionary upheavals. From the removal of Confederate monuments in the United States following the 2020 protests to the ongoing debates surrounding figures like Cecil Rhodes in Africa and Christopher Columbus worldwide, the public space is becoming a contested arena. This isn’t simply about erasing history; it’s about challenging the narratives those monuments represent. A 2023 report by the Southern Poverty Law Center found over 700 Confederate symbols remain in public spaces across the US, despite increased calls for their removal. This illustrates the resistance to change and the deeply ingrained nature of these symbols.
Did you know? The act of ‘damnatio memoriae’ – the deliberate erasure of a person from history – dates back to ancient Rome, where it was used to punish political enemies. Today, the motivations are often different, focusing on rectifying historical injustices rather than political retribution.
Beyond Dictators: The Expanding Scope of Scrutiny
Macías’s inventory extends beyond the predictable targets of dictators and colonial figures. He includes artists, sports stars, and even fictional characters, prompting a broader question: who deserves to be memorialized, and why? The inclusion of figures like Elvis Presley and Freddy Mercury highlights the often-unquestioned elevation of pop culture icons. The recent controversy surrounding the Cristiano Ronaldo statue in Madeira, described as “the ugliest” in the book, demonstrates that even beloved figures aren’t immune to criticism and aesthetic judgment. This expanding scope of scrutiny reflects a growing skepticism towards hero worship and a demand for more nuanced representations of the past.
The Digital Monument: A New Form of Commemoration?
As physical monuments come under fire, a new form of commemoration is emerging: the digital monument. Virtual museums, online archives, and augmented reality experiences are offering alternative ways to engage with history. For example, the Google Arts & Culture platform provides access to countless artifacts and historical sites, allowing users to explore them remotely. This raises questions about the future of public art and the role of technology in shaping our collective memory. Will digital monuments prove more resilient to the forces of social change, or will they simply become another battleground for competing narratives?
Pro Tip: Explore online resources like the Smithsonian Institution’s digital collections (https://www.si.edu/) to discover alternative ways to engage with history and culture.
The Power of Context and the Importance of Interpretation
Macías’s approach – revealing the “idol” gradually, allowing the reader to form their own impressions – underscores the importance of context and interpretation. The book’s detailed documentation, including geographical coordinates and technical specifications, emphasizes the physicality of these monuments while simultaneously inviting critical reflection. This mirrors a growing trend in museum studies and historical scholarship, which prioritizes multiple perspectives and acknowledges the inherent subjectivity of historical narratives. The inclusion of seemingly trivial details, like Zuckerberg’s commissioned statue, serves as a reminder that the impulse to create idols is deeply ingrained in human behavior.
The Future of Monuments: Towards a More Inclusive Landscape
The future of monuments likely lies in a more inclusive and dynamic landscape. Rather than simply removing existing statues, there’s a growing movement towards contextualization – adding plaques or interpretive displays that acknowledge the complexities of the figure’s history. There’s also a push for the creation of new monuments that represent a wider range of voices and experiences, particularly those of marginalized communities. The National Memorial for Peace and Justice in Montgomery, Alabama, which commemorates the victims of racial terror lynchings, is a powerful example of this approach. This shift reflects a broader societal desire for a more honest and equitable reckoning with the past.
FAQ
Q: Is removing statues erasing history?
A: Not necessarily. It’s about challenging the narratives those statues represent and creating space for more inclusive interpretations of the past.
Q: What is ‘damnatio memoriae’?
A: An ancient Roman practice of deliberately erasing a person from history, often used to punish political enemies.
Q: Are digital monuments a viable alternative to physical ones?
A: They offer new possibilities for accessibility and interpretation, but also raise questions about preservation and the potential for manipulation.
Q: What role does public opinion play in monument debates?
A: A significant one. Public pressure and social movements are often key drivers of change in this area.
This ongoing conversation, sparked by works like Macías’s, is crucial for shaping a more thoughtful and representative public landscape. It’s a reminder that monuments aren’t simply static objects; they’re dynamic symbols that reflect – and shape – our understanding of the world.
Want to learn more? Explore articles on public art and historical memory at Hyperallergic and Smithsonian Magazine.
