Representation, Narration and Territorial Identities: Molise Region and the Mythopoiesis of Non-existence

Abstract

Drawing inspiration from the case of the Molise region and the well-known story with which it is associated, non-existence, this article aims to reflect on the theoretical lines and possible methodological directions for analysing the processes of identity configuration of territories. The concepts of region and identity, in their similarities, represent a valid starting point for critical analysis. Territorial identity, in particular, finds its foundations in association with the adjectives relational and narrative. Multiple narratives inform it and build the sense of belonging of Molise’s inhabitants. Discussing the way in which the region is narrated means wading through complex historical events and a constant co-production of places and myths. The latter, understood as low-intensity mythical narratives, are nowadays modified in the cyberplace. Therefore, discourse analysis and the combination of several methods are essential tools to follow the traces of the practices carried out by a hypothesized Molisian onlife sociotopia, such as the opinion of the inhabitants, news and information found on the web and internet memes. The answer to the proposed research question, “How can discourses and narratives about the non-existent Molise play a role in the construction of the territorial identity of Molise and the sense of belonging of the Molise people?” could thus reveal two regimes of truth, often understood as factual: the non-existence and, equally, the existence of the Molise region.