Immersive heritage as embodied politics: Physical perception and historical perspective at Puy du Fou´s hyperreal environments (ENG)

The proliferation of disembodied forms of cultural consumption and social engagement, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic, has led to the popularization of immersive, experience-oriented activities. Within the field of public history, embodied representations of the past, such as historical reenactments, living history museums, and immersive walk-in spectacles, have increased in popularity and raised questions about their relevance as tools for constructing historical knowledge. The most prominent example of this trend is the international success of the theme park Puy du Fou, which incorporates all these forms of historical embodiment to depict the historical perspective of its founder, right-wing politician Philippe de Villiers. By analyzing the various methods of audience immersion utilized in the park, this contribution explores how the park’s emphasis on sensory engagement and bodily experience politically alienates the audience within the historical narratives presented. Key aspects of the discussion are the analysis of the physical processes that authenticate the historical narrative represented as witnessed reality and the intensive appeal to physical emotions as forms of moral coercion.

Drawing on Umberto Eco’s concept of hyperreality, and Sara Ahmed’s cultural politics of emotion, this contribution evaluates the forms in which Puy du Fou’s shows eliminate distance, depth, and perspective in their portrayal of history.

The politics of immersive heritage involves a complex interplay between physical perception and historical consciousness. Puy du Fou exemplifies how immersive experiences can both captivate and manipulate an audience’s perception of history. This contribution aims to reveal the dual nature of these engagements, emphasizing the need for a balanced view that recognizes their ability to deeply involve audiences while also being aware of their potential to distort historical truths for political purposes.