«ДІАЛОГ КУЛЬТУР» У РОМАНІ Ю. ЯНОВСЬКОГО «МАЙСТЕР КОРАБЛЯ»

Abstract

This article examines Y. Yanovsky’s novel “Master of the Ship” (1927­1928) as a vivid example of Neoromantism in Ukrainian literature of the early 20th century. The structure of the novel is defined by conjunction of the real and the purportedly exotic worlds, along with cultural dialogue, which is created by the means of introduction of different texts into the novel (written by Ukrainian as well as foreign authors). The characters were created based on prominent Ukrainian figures (Y. Yanovsky himself, O. Dovzhenko, V. Krychevsky, and others). By using marine symbols, the author enlightens the themes of creativity, free and unbiased thinking. Different types of narration and narrative characters serve as the “voices of the epoch”, among which the main characters are searching for truth and their place in this world. The article deals with intertextual connections between the “Master of the Ship” and the works by M. V. Gogol, J. W. Goethe, Ch. Dibdin, Horatius, as well as ancient Greek and biblical mythology, films from 1920s, and pirate literature. The sea, as depicted in the novel, is a symbol of dual nature: on one hand, it is a symbol of freedom, creative thinking and free human spirit, but on the other hand, it is a powerful disrupting force, which can take its toll on humans. A theme of resistance and upstanding is quite powerful in the novel, as opposed to real historical events it is based upon. The grim picture of the Soviet epoch is intensified by creating an atmosphere of all­absorbing hostility, suspicion and mistrust, even among friends. Nevertheless, the main characters stay true to their artistic calling, continue their work and develop a new plotline. Using Bogdan’s concentration camp story as a basis, they want to create a film about real people, about humanity and mutual support in times of trouble, about the eternal values connecting people across cultures and continents. The narrator ponders over the development of Ukrainian culture, roots for his compatriots and retains his patriotic feelings. Intertextuality emphasizes the idea of preserving integrity, freedom and Ukrainian national values even in times of hardship.