How to work with an oral history interview

When working with oral history interviews as historical evidence regardless of their form – written, audio or audio-visual or source – book, magazine, online/offline database, podcast, television, etc. it is recommended analyze these aspects of the stories:

1. Understand the narrator

When examining the narrator, consider delving into their identity, relationship with the discussed events, potential biases, self-presentation, and the influence of personal, cultural, and social factors. Explore how societal perceptions and popular culture might impact the narrator’s account.

2. Explore the interviewer

In the exploration of the interviewer, focus on their background, interests, and how these might shape the interview. Assess the interviewer’s preparation, question strategies, and the potential impact of their social identity on both the interviewee and the overall interview dynamics. Investigate any prior relationships between the interviewer and interviewee.

3. Analyze the interview content

For a detailed analysis of the interview content, scrutinize the structure of the interview, identify the plot, and examine the narrator’s chosen motifs, images, and anecdotes. Investigate areas the narrator avoids or emphasizes and evaluate the internal consistency and potential factual errors. Consider how the interview aligns with other sources and interviews.

4. Understand the purpose

To comprehend the purpose of the interview, assess the motivations behind its conduct and how these might have influenced the content, perspective, and tone. Look for cues that indicate the intended outcome or message.

5. Consider the circumstances

In the context of the circumstances, explore the impact of the interview location on the narrative. Investigate how the presence of others during the interview may have influenced the dynamics. Consider the mental and physical health of both the narrator and interviewer and their potential effects on the interview.