Mythmaking, National Identity and Balkan History

Mythmaking, National Identity and Balkan History

The Balkans, a region seen as “the powder keg of Europe” since the 17th century, is a complex labyrinth of nationalism, ethnicity and religion. Balkan history is best explained in terms of the myths that are the foundation of both religious and nationalistic fervor for the various Balkan ethnic groups. The protagonists of these myths have become not only national heroes, but also saints of the Orthodox Church. In this way, the mythology of each Balkan nation or ethnic group envelops both nationalistic pride and religious beliefs, the result of which is a powder keg that frequently explodes.