Eleventh Global Studies Conference

Abstract

As a result of migration, culturally diverse and heterogeneous societies can be found almost in every corner of the world. The extensive globalisation process has its both positive and negative impact on individuals and whole societies in every sphere and discipline. Consequently, different cultures and hybrid identities can be encountered in one single person nowadays. Is hybridisation a positive phenomenon? Is living in two or more cultures a favourable thing? What does it mean to have two mother tongues? My paper depicts stories of Armenians who migrated to Germany not only from Armenia, but other countries as well, intermingling with cultures from three realities: ethnic culture, culture of the country of birth, culture of the country of growing up or a later lifespan. Hence, what identities prevail among Armenians in Germany? How do they feel about and evaluate their composite lifestyle? What role do their hybrid identities play in the integration process? Interviews conducted with Armenians in Germany illustrate the situation and provide answers concerning the above-mentioned questions.