Studia Litterarum (Dec 2024)
The Influence of the “Russian Nihilistic Novel” on French Thought in 1870s–1890s: Critical Reception
Abstract
The article discusses the reception of Russian nihilism in French thought during the 1870s and 1890s. During this time, there was a surge in interest in Russian literature in France, leading to the emergence of codes, images, and narratives related to Russian culture in France’s intellectual sphere. Among these, “Russian nihilism” and the “Russian novel” stood out. The article examines the history of Russian novels published during this period, as well as the reception of nihilism and Russian novels in critical French thought. It compares the concept of the “Russian novel,” as described by E.M. de Vogüé, with that of the novel of Russian nihilism, as described by F. Brunetière. The article discusses the contrast between two interpretations of the Russian novel in France, highlighting the complexity of its institutionalization. It oscillates between the “European” (naturalistic novel) and “oriental” (exotic novel) models, reflecting the different perceptions of Russian literature by French readers. The article also explores how the popularity of Russian novels was shaped by France’s colonial policies in the 19th century and how this led to a reflection on French political and social identity through the lens of literature.
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