Nationalism, symbolism, national-symbolism?

In my dissertation, I start from an investigation of the importance and influence of symbols in the field of the political. These symbols give rise to very different and opposite reactions. I would like then to focus on the term 'nation'. In particular, I want to examine whether or not the ambivalence of nationalistic symbolism could play a role in the emergence of totalitarianism. Current events play a role in my interest in these themes, and they will be involved in my research. However, it is important to place them in a broader perspective alongside insights and arguments from a different time and context. Much of my research will be based on professional literature and my reflection on it. I would like to supplement the material that I collect with a discussion of some literary works that focus on the experience of totalitarianism.