ABSTRACT
The myths of the First World War have become the object of ridicule and incredulity amongst revisionist historians as these scholars seek to alter the presumed incorrect perception of the conflict within Britain. The way in which society seemingly clings to the debunked myths and memory is frequently presumed to result from the misrepresentation of the war through the media and a vapid consumption of these products by an incredulous public. This approach obscures the nature and use of myths within society. Far from being misapprehensions, the myths that society lives by form essential means of communicating attitudes and perspectives. Myths in this respect are part of a cultural heritage, demonstrating how the past is used to frame and outline issues in the present. As such, the anti-democratic nature of the heritage of the Great War is affirmed; with the legacy of the conflict serving as a barricade and protection against the operation of power.
