The Symbolic Deficit. French Literature in Belgium and 19th Century National Sentiment

Abstract

In the 19th century, Francophone and Flemish authors pursued the same goal viz. to provide the young state with a Belgian literature. Whereas Flemish literature managed to affirm itself rather quickly, Francophone writers experienced more difficulties to respond to the Romantic Movement’s demand for a national literature which reflected the Volksgeist. It was necessary to create — in French — a literature which would be distinct from the literature in France. This could only be accomplished by falling back on Belgian themes which were essentially Flemish. This led to a symbolic deficit on the Francophone side. While making use of the Flemish veins the generation of 1880 acquired international renown and made a considerable contribution to the legitimation of Belgium.