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Memory, Transitional Justice, and Theatre in Post-Dictatorship Argentina

Gabriel Hayes

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Published in Memory Transitional Justice And Theatre In Postdictatorship Argentina (Theater In The Americas)

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The military dictatorship that ruled Argentina from 1976 to 1983 was a dark period in the country's history, marked by widespread human rights abuses, including torture, murder, and disappearances. In the aftermath of the dictatorship, Argentina embarked on a complex and challenging process of transitional justice, which sought to address the legacy of the past and promote reconciliation.

Memory, Transitional Justice, and Theatre in Postdictatorship Argentina (Theater in the Americas)

by John Marshall

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Theatre has played an important role in Argentina's transitional justice process. Plays have contributed to the recovery and reconstruction of memory, the pursuit of truth, and the search for justice and reconciliation. This article explores the different ways in which theatre has been used to address the past in Argentina, and examines the impact that it has had on the country's transitional justice process.

The Recovery and Reconstruction of Memory

One of the most important tasks of transitional justice is the recovery and reconstruction of memory. This involves uncovering the truth about past human rights abuses, and ensuring that the victims of those abuses are remembered and their stories are told. Theatre can be a powerful tool for recovering and reconstructing memory, as it allows for the exploration of complex and difficult issues in a way that is both engaging and accessible.

In Argentina, a number of plays have been produced that deal with the experiences of victims of the dictatorship. These plays have helped to raise awareness of the human rights abuses that took place, and they have provided a space for victims to share their stories and experiences. Some of the most well-known plays that have dealt with the dictatorship include: La noche de los lápices (1986),El Informe Nunca Más (1985),and La historia oficial (1985).

Poster For The Play 'La Noche De Los Lápices', Which Deals With The Kidnapping And Murder Of A Group Of High School Students By The Military Dictatorship. Memory Transitional Justice And Theatre In Postdictatorship Argentina (Theater In The Americas)

The Pursuit of Truth

Another important aspect of transitional justice is the pursuit of truth. This involves investigating human rights abuses, identifying those responsible, and holding them accountable. Theatre can be used to contribute to the pursuit of truth by raising awareness of human rights abuses, and by providing a space for victims and witnesses to share their experiences.

In Argentina, a number of plays have been produced that have focused on the pursuit of truth. These plays have helped to shed light on the human rights abuses that took place during the dictatorship, and they have contributed to the efforts to bring those responsible to justice. Some of the most well-known plays that have dealt with the pursuit of truth include: Nunca más (1985),El juicio de Nuremberg (1990),and La casa de Bernarda Alba (1995).

Poster For The Play 'Nunca Más', Which Is Based On The Report Of The National Commission On The Disappearance Of Persons. Memory Transitional Justice And Theatre In Postdictatorship Argentina (Theater In The Americas) — Poster for the play 'Nunca más'

The Search for Justice and Reconciliation

Transitional justice also seeks to promote justice and reconciliation. This involves addressing the needs of victims, seeking accountability for those responsible for human rights abuses, and promoting a culture of respect for human rights. Theatre can be used to contribute to the search for justice and reconciliation by providing a space for victims and perpetrators to come together, and by facilitating dialogue and understanding.

In Argentina, a number of plays have been produced that have focused on the search for justice and reconciliation. These plays have helped to raise awareness of the importance of justice and reconciliation, and they have contributed to the efforts to build a more just and equitable society. Some of the most well-known plays that have dealt with the search for justice and reconciliation include: El secreto de la esperanza (1999),El abrazo (2000),and La reconciliación (2005).

Poster For The Play 'El Secreto De La Esperanza', Which Is Based On The True Story Of A Group Of Women Who Were Kidnapped And Tortured During The Dictatorship. Memory Transitional Justice And Theatre In Postdictatorship Argentina (Theater In The Americas)

Theatre has played an important role in Argentina's transitional justice process. Plays have contributed to the recovery and reconstruction of memory, the pursuit of truth, and the search for justice and reconciliation. Theatre has provided a space for victims to share their stories, for perpetrators to come to terms with their actions, and for the whole society to reflect on the past and work towards a more just and equitable future.

Memory, Transitional Justice, and Theatre in Postdictatorship Argentina (Theater in the Americas)

by John Marshall

5 out of 5