This one-of-a-kind guide to the realm of European images and symbols was written as a result of the authors exploration of the archives of the Concil of Europe and the European Commission, as well as libraries in Belgium, France and Switzerland.

This one-of-a-kind guide to the realm of European images and symbols was written as a result of the authors exploration of the archives of the Concil of Europe and the European Commission, as well as libraries in Belgium, France and Switzerland. The antropological perspective of the study gives the publication a unigue character. Kowalski focuses on the symbolic and mythological aspects of European institutions. Europe is presented as an ideal being,which "lends itself to thought" trough images organisedin thematic groups. These groups are a springboargfor deliberating on contenporary political mythologies. the section on metaphoric models of European discourse outlines the political ideas of de Rougemont,Schuman,Monnet and Delors. The symbolism of Eurpean institutions is discussed based on the example of the European flag and anthem,specifically their history,official meanings and unofficial popular connotations. A wide selection of official documents,correspodence and proposed designs for the European flag and anthem make an inetrestg addition to the book.

Polish version