Clashing views of the world and its’ impact on conflicts: A study on identities and narratives on Northern Ireland

Abstract: In the aftermath of Brexit, the clashing narratives and identities have once again flared up on Northern Ireland. When in doubt about the future, an exploration into the past might be of use in order to avoid a continued conflict. This study will thus aim to research the identities and narratives put forth by the republican and the unionist/loyalist sides during the conflict on Northern Ireland. The thesis will through four touchdowns into the conflict analyse the narratives in an attempt to understand the identity-making of the conflict’s parties. Analysing speeches, interviews and publications from the leaders of both sides of the conflict, the presentation of Self, Other, victim, perpetrator and historical context is identified through the rhetoric. The use of these key concepts are components in shaping the intractability of the conflict.