Facing Persistent Historical Narratives and National Stereotypes in the European Construction

National stereotypes may seem shallow. However, they are continuously used. What, at first glance, may just resemble a ludic interplay with long-existing national stereotypes constitutes an attempt to reflect on Europe’s cultural complexity. It is the contention of this article that it is first key to be aware of how collective identity formation within Europe takes shape. National stereotypes are not at all historical constants, but the result of historical evolution in a particular context. To problematize and propose alternatives in the current transcultural context within Europe, a clear understanding and contextualization of the role of national stereotypes and the construction of national narratives and national myths is necessary. It is further relevant not to forget that the Other within Europe does not simply come from outside.