The Representation in Debate. A Reading of the Benjaminian Critique of Carl Schmitt’s Thought
Abstract
This article aims to examine the discussion that Walter Benjamin establishes with Carl Schmitt within the Theses “Über den Begriff der Geschichte” (“On the concept of history”). I will argue that the problem of representation is the hermeneutical key to understand the link between Benjamin’s reformulation of the notions of time and history and his critique of Schmitt’s ideas. Starting from the dispute about the famous notion of “state of exception” (Ausnahmezustand), the paper will trace the elements that can elucidate the scope of this critique. Finally, the conclusions will analyze the implications that arise from the dispute.
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