THE RUSHDIE AFAIR AND THE BOSNIAN “TROUBLES”: SOME READINGS AND MISREADINGS
THE RUSHDIE AFAIR AND THE BOSNIAN “TROUBLES”: SOME READINGS AND MISREADINGS

Author(s): William Webb
Subject(s): Nationalism Studies, Inter-Ethnic Relations, Ethnic Minorities Studies
Published by: Foruma za etničke odnose
Keywords: cultural identity; Salman Rushdie; cultural collision; ethnic violence
Summary/Abstract: William Webb explores the complex interplay between literature, politics, and cultural identity, beginning with the British reaction to Salman Rushdie's The Satanic Verses and the cultural backlash it sparked, particularly among Muslim communities in the UK. He draws parallels between this domestic crisis and the deeper, more violent ethnic conflicts in Bosnia, highlighting how historical grievances, cultural disjunctions, and primitive impulses can resurface with brutal force. Ultimately, Webb warns that modern societies are not immune to ancient patterns of hatred and violence, which, once sanctioned by leaders or ideology, can erupt with terrifying consequences.

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