Contemporary Polish Documentaries on the Volhynian Tragedy: a Reinterpretation of the Historical Narrative

This article examines the narratives describing the 1943 events in Volhynia as portrayed in Polish and Ukrainian documentary films. While documentaries are often regarded as objective sources of information, they also play a powerful role in shaping public consciousness and everyday historical understanding. The Volhynia events hold profound significance for both Polish and Ukrainian audiences. However, the interpretations presented in these films reflect two divergent historical perspectives. Analyzing these narratives – particularly the recurring themes and propaganda techniques – provides a deeper insight into how historical memory is constructed and exprssed. This process is vital for understanding current Polish-Ukrainian relations. Additionally, viewer responses to the films are analyzed separately, as they reveal how historical issues are politicized and emotionally charged, often being transferred uncritically into the present-day discourse.