ABSTRACT
Chapter 5 argues that from the edges we see things differently and a boundary (perceived or otherwise) is a particular vantage point in which subjects are positioned, or position themselves. ‘Edge’ places often have particular geohistories that are made as a result of their peculiar location and the spatial politics they are embroiled in, often because of their strategic value for conferring control of space and symbolic dominance (e.g. the Dardanelles). Edge places attract certain kinds of event because of their geopolitical position. This then leads to ‘edgy heritage’ in which crossings, crisis and contests are deeply and peculiarly felt. But the ‘edges’ of Europe are not just geographical – they can also be socio-economic, political, moral or ethnic. The chapter argues that edge places offer a peculiar spatial and affective dimension in which both to view, make and unmake different Europes, where symbolic imaginaries and geopolitics come into relation.
