Gdansk anew? Some remarks on writing about the post-war history of the city

Abstract

In this essay the author, drawing on select histories of German cities, considers what needs to be included in the research on the post-war history of Gdansk. The city’s history, after all, is not limited to its territory, but extends well beyond its limits. In the case of Gdansk, the geographic area of “Gdansk-ness” is very large, since, because of their roots, professions, or personal fascination, there are many people connected to it who are located outside of its specific territory. The history of the city, according to the author, should include these various areas as well. The new history of the city would also include elements such as the history of the natural environment, the languages used, the appellations, gender roles and the place of the city’s former inhabitants in the narrative of its history. The second part of the essay focuses on the history of the imaginings of Gdansk – a city which warranted reflection not only from those within it but also in many other regions of Europe.