Introduction:
- This Marxian idea implies that historical patterns often recur—initially in serious, tragic forms, later in hollow imitations.
Body:
- Examples:
- WWI → WWII (tragedy); Cold War revivals (farce).
- Emergency in India vs recent debates on democratic backsliding.
- Institutional Memory Loss: Societies ignore lessons of the past—e.g., recurring economic bubbles, communal violence.
- Media & Satire: Farcical repetitions often exposed by comedians, artists.
- Value of History Education: To avoid repetition, historical awareness must be strong.
Conclusion:
- If history must repeat, let it be with wisdom, not as a parody of past errors.