Mythological motifs in the storybook by M. Moskvina “My Dog Loves Jazz”

Abstract

This article demonstrates the realization of mythological motifs in the Russian children’s literature of the late XX century, namely the story “My Dog Loves Jazz" by M. Moskvina. It is established that mythological motifs are used not only as artistic elements, but also as semantic constructs. The specificity of the story incorporates the motifs of justice, irony and game. The plot and existential component are reconstructed through the prism of mythology, which includes the elements of social experience and irrealistic course of the narrated events. The peculiarities of motif structure primarily manifest in the discussion of everyday life situations and prospects (career choice, parenting problems, purchasing clothes, ways to broaden outlook, vacation on the beach). The method of narration should be viewed as mythotypical symbolism, which manifests in the ambiguous and unpredictable of the finale of separate scenes, and allows intervening into the reader’s imagination. Colorfully delivering the interesting plotlines, the author allows the reader to reflect on themselves. The article indicates the positive energy of narration, which creates prerequisites for inspiration, new life pursuits, and desire to look at the world with eyes wide open. It is noted that this literary work contributes to the formation of morals in young generation.