Episode 1: How Myths Drive Our Understanding of History in the Present
How do historical myths shape the way we understand the world today? From national narratives to collective identities, myths continue to influence politics, public debate, and our perceptions of the past.

In this episode, hosts David Duong, Lluïsa Nieddu, Irem Karamik, Ognjen Radical, and Elli Kivivuori explore the enduring power of historical myths in conversation with Matteo Bassoli, Associate Professor at the Department of Political Science, Law and International
Studies at the University of Padua.

Together, they discuss how myths are created, why they persist, and what role critical historical thinking plays in strengthening democratic societies.

Production:

Fernanda Zanuzzi (EUROM), Natalia Papageorgiou (Maison Jean Monnet) and Moritz Hergl (JEF Europe)

Recording and Post-Production:

Benjamin Samama 

Original idea (2025):
Fernanda Zanuzzi (EUROM) and Xesc Mainzer (JEF Europe)

All episodes recorded at the Jean Monnet House on May 4-6, 2026, during the Fourth School on European Memories.

The European Commission’s and European Parliament support for the production of this podcast series does not constitute an endorsement of the contents, which reflect the views of the authors only. The Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein.