The values of order

In the previous chapter, oral testimonies were considered from the point of view of cultural resistance and the history of culture. However, the focus will now be on the problem of analysing the changing relations between dominators and dominated. Oral sources are invaluable in opening up this area for further research and for exploring the history of ‘mentalities’ and patterns of thought.

In the testimonies, the elements indicating acceptance of Fascism often appear tagged on to declarations expressing dissociation or distance from the regime. Nevertheless, we find important signs of acceptance within the orbit of the prevailing anti-fascist ideology. In the first place, the very idea of order and imposed uniformity was accepted as a positive value. The imposition of uniformity is recalled in its material and physical aspects, and presented as the satisfaction of a desire for public identity, especially among the younger ones.