Ep 5. Slovenia: Levels of a Story

Melanie and Robin take viewers on a journey through Slovenia in this episode of Word Travels. The hosts explore the country's complex history, stunning landscapes, and rich culture, focusing on the theme of storytelling and the different levels on which stories can be told.

The episode begins in the capital city of Ljubljana, where Melanie and Robin meet up with a local guide who takes them on a walking tour of the city's historic center. They learn about Slovenia's ties to the Habsburg Empire and its struggle for independence in the 20th century. Along the way, they encounter several street performers who use their art to tell stories about Slovenia's past and present.

Next, the hosts head out of the city and into the countryside to visit Lake Bled, one of Slovenia's most popular tourist destinations. They take a boat ride to the island in the middle of the lake, where they learn about the legend of the Bell of Wishes and the various ways that people have told and retold this story over the centuries. They also explore the medieval castle overlooking the lake, which has its own fascinating history as a stronghold and a residence for nobility.

From Lake Bled, Melanie and Robin drive to the Soča River Valley, an area that was heavily contested during World War I and is now known for its stunning natural beauty. They chat with a local historian who explains the different ways that the war has been remembered and represented in literature, film, and other forms of art. They also visit a museum that houses artifacts from the war and tells the stories of the soldiers who fought and died in this area.

Along the way, the hosts sample some of Slovenia's delicious cuisine, including local cheeses, cured meats, and wines. They also attend a traditional folk music performance and try their hand at some of the dances.

Throughout the episode, Melanie and Robin reflect on the different levels of storytelling they encounter in Slovenia. They talk about how stories can be passed down through generations, adapted to different media and cultural contexts, and used to shape people's identities and understanding of the world. They also discuss the challenges of telling stories about a place that has undergone so many changes and conflicts over time.

By the end of the episode, viewers will have gained a deep appreciation for the complexity and richness of Slovenia's history and culture, as well as a renewed sense of the power of storytelling to connect people across time and space.