Subversive Sovereignty: Parodic Representations of Micropatrias Enclaved by the United Kingdom

Terri Moreau

Research output: ThesisDoctoral Thesis

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Abstract

The thesis is an exploration in breadth of the micropatrial phenomenon; the practice of creating self-declared nations outside of hegemonic convention. Positioning micropatrias as geopolitical anomalies, the thesis aims to critically examine micropatrias and their practitioners existing within territory claimed by the United Kingdom. The thesis investigates the approaches of micropatrial practitioners and highlights how their practices make visible for intervention the exclusionary strategies of sovereign hegemony. There is an explicit interest in contributing to debates within political and cultural geography pertaining to sovereignty, diplomacy, and the politics of transgression/subversion. More specifically, the aims are to interrogate micropatrial practices and representations in terms of subversion and liminality, symbols, and diplomacy. In particular, the focus is on how micropatrias parodically represent, to insiders and outsiders alike, a cultural and national presence. In doing so, the thesis, through a consideration of the apparent, absurd, or exceptional, offers critical insights into geopolitical norms, which might be described as hegemonic, especially those related to sovereignty and sovereign power.
Original languageEnglish
QualificationPh.D.
Awarding Institution
  • Royal Holloway, University of London
Supervisors/Advisors
  • Cresswell, Timothy, Supervisor
Award date1 Nov 2014
Publication statusUnpublished - 2014

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