1、 Introduction

This article introduces Stepanova's "Memory" as a highly anticipated work, its influence in the literary world and among readers, as well as the multidimensional characteristics of the work. Memory "is not only a family chronicle, but also a collection of essays about Russian history and memory, attempting to annotate the 20th century. The works, in their unique genre form, dissolve the boundaries of literary genres, break through traditional narrative methods, and present fragmented characteristics. Stepanova explored the multiple relationships between family, ethnicity, history, and personal memory through the writing of family history, reflecting her emphasis on memory and in-depth exploration of historical and memory themes.

2、 Family Chronicles in the Context of the Hot Research on "Memory"

Deeply explored the importance of family chronicles in constructing family history, emphasizing the close connection between memory and historical writing. Stepanova distinguished the essential difference between memory and history in "Memory", pointing out the subjectivity of memory and the pursuit of objectivity in history. The chapter reviews the evolution of traditional historiography and new historiography, particularly the influence of new historicism on historical concepts, emphasizing the similarity between historical and literary narratives. Hayden White regarded history as a "poetics" that provided a theoretical basis for writers to write history. The combination of historical writing, memory, and fictional imagination in the new century reflects the characteristics of the Russian literary scene in the post Soviet era.

3、 The Construction of Private Family History

Memory "is a work created by Stepanova based on her strong interest in family history and personal sense of mission. She attempts to reconstruct family history by flipping through family photo albums, visiting ancestral residences, and reviewing archival materials. However, she found it difficult to reconstruct history solely based on memory, as many memories were unreliable and family members hid their true past to adapt to life during the Soviet era. Therefore, Stepanova used collage techniques to incorporate diaries, photos, objects, etc. into her works, adding heavy colors to her family memories.

4、 Requiem of Jewish National Memory

In depth exploration of Stepanova's fragmented writing of family history in "Memory", through the insertion of evaluations of multiple Jewish writers, artists, and philosophers, metaphorically portrays the tragic fate of the Jewish nation in the 20th century. Stepanova proudly writes her family's Jewish history, in stark contrast to Russian writers who previously avoided Jewish identity. Starting from the life experience of her great grandmother Sarah Ginzburg, she tells the story of the Jewish people's tradition of advocating education, wisdom, and literature and art, as well as the misunderstandings, discrimination, and persecution they suffered in the 20th century. The book depicts the difficult survival situation of the Jewish people in 20th century Russia through the personal experiences of family members, such as the atrocities committed against Jews and the doctor case. Survivors in the family are reluctant to mention the past, but younger generations gradually realize that as inheritors of traumatic memories, they have a responsibility to awaken these memories and remember everything that their ancestors have suffered. Stepanova combines the family's past with the history of the Jewish nation, revealing the tragic fate of the Jewish people. At the same time, she also reviewed the life experiences of some famous Jewish poets, writers, and artists in the 20th century, such as Mandelstam and Charlotte Salomon, showcasing their intertwined experiences with family members and the tragic fate of the Jewish nation under the wheels of history. Stepanova attempted to establish immortal monuments for these cultural figures and the Jewish people, playing a requiem of national memory.

5、 Conclusion

Memory "combines history, memory, philosophy, and literature in the form of prose and essays, showcasing rich family chronicles. The work goes beyond linear narration and combines with reflections on 20th century history, culture, philosophy, and literary art, enhancing the depth of family history writing. Stepanova pays special attention to the Jewish community and depicts their tragic experiences in the 20th century, which is of great significance for tracing family and national memories. The work not only provides readers with a new understanding of 'memory', but also deepens their knowledge of the 20th century and the history of the Jewish nation. Stepanova uses words to commemorate her family and Jewish ancestors, reminding us as descendants of 20th century survivors that we should learn from the experiences of our ancestors, draw lessons from history, and create a better future together.