Thinking About the Prehistory of Documentary Essence of Contemporary Visual Culture

Abstract

Reflects on the motives of contemporary popularity of hybrid screen forms, including elements of documentary and fiction as well. The pre­history of documentary is discussed. The author proposes a concept of syncretism of documental and fictional in the ancient culture, especially in myth and performing arts. The later art forms are also addressed especially those referring to reliable historical facts or containing play simulation of documentality.