Oral History Theory

Lynn Abrams is Professor of Modern History at the University of Glasgow, UK. She has published widely in the field of women’s, gender and oral history, including Myth and Materiality in a Woman’s World: Shetland 1800-2000 (2005) and The Making of Modern Woman: Europe 1789-1918 (2002).

• Preface to the second edition: new directions in oral history. Acknowledgments. 1 Introduction: turning practice into theory. 2. The peculiarities of oral history. 3. Self. 4. Subjectivity and intersubjectivity. 5. Memory. 6. Narrative. 7. Performance. 8. Power. 9. Trauma and ethics. Glossary. Notes. Guide to further reading. Index.

"Abrams introduces analytical theories, examines their application to oral history narratives, and provides "suggestions for how to translate theory into practice." Required reading for oral historians, the book belongs in every academic library. Summing Up: Essential." CHOICE"The first edition of Lynn Abrams' Oral History Theory uniquely provided a comprehensive overview of the theory underpinning the practice of oral history. This updated second edition, with new material on trauma, ethics, collaborative practice and the impact of digital technologies will be an essential read for students, researchers and interviewers."Andrew Flinn, University College London, UK "By explaining often complex theoretical constructs and debates in a user-friendly and understandable language, this newly updated edition will prove invaluable to oral history practitioners and students alike. Cutting-edge in its outlook and approach, this edition extends our understanding of on-going developments by focussing on the impact of new digital technologies, the growing interest in trauma or ‘crisis’ oral history, and the theoretical and practical implications of conducting collaborative oral history projects."Andrew Edwards, Bangor University, UK"Oral History Theory provides students and practitioners of oral history with an accessible introduction to complex ideas shaping the field. This well-organized text lays out a compilation of research and examples that fostered deeper understanding among students as they conducted their own interviews."Joanne Goodwin, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, USA"In this book, Lynn Abrams speaks to a range of potential audiences interested in the practice and outcomes of oral history research. The text includes theoretical analysis, practical advice and reference to a range of case studies. This newly revised edition also includes consideration of dealing with ‘trauma’ and the ethical issues arising in oral history practice and analysis. The accompanying website now makes this an essential tool for teaching, learning and research in the field."Melanie Ilic, University of Gloucestershire, UK