Self-representation and identity: Hungarian drama as a representative of national culture

Abstract

There are paradoxes in the mediation of culture for foreigners. If the work to be offered remains unchanged, it might be indifferent for a foreign public. On the other hand, if the work is adapted to the receiving culture, it will necessarily go through alterations and loose elements of its original identity. The first part of the essay discusses international examples and theoretical aspects of the phenomenon, including the issues of stereotypes, canonization, prejudices etc. The second part is a case study taking into focus the example of Hungarian drama and how it has been received internationally, restricting the investigation to the English‑speaking world. The time frame of one and a half century proves that there have been different reasons why some Hungarian dramatic works had been internationally appreciated, and it is stressed that “delegating” works, views and values is not an effective way to make the world acquainted with cultural values which are important for us.

Keywords

• national culture
• identity
• self‑representation
• drama
• reception