Transculturalism and transcultural symbol of the blue flower

Abstract

This article examines the problem of determining transculturalism as an independent supracultural phenomenon, the cognition of which requires the aesthetic subject adopt an attitude of outsideness and holistic consciousness. Transculturalism is described a specific cultural model that can represent transcultural symbols. Based on the image of the blue flower, the author examines transcultural symbol as a phenomenon with mythical basis, which is being formed through ceaseless process of cultural transfer. For determining transculturalism as an independent phenomenon, the author analyzes modern definitions presented in the scientific discourse and compares them with the definition of transculturalism given by M. N. Epstein. The formation of transcultural symbol is described via genetic method and from the perspective of the process of cultural transfer (M. Espagne). This article proves M. N. Epstein's theory on perception of transculturalism as a specific cultural model, a supracultural phenomenon. The author explores the peculiarities of development of transcultural symbol,  and provides the examples of variation of this symbol are given (using the image of the blue flower in the English-language literary discourse). This work contributes to the understanding of transculturalism as a supracultural, universal, national, and holistic phenomenon. In modern world, such definition of transculturism is essential for conducting cross-cultural dialogue and maintaining respectful attitude towards national code. Using the example of the blue flower, the author reviews the variations of transcultural symbol in the English-language literature; analyzes the contest of paradigms, peculiarities of the palimpsest of this image, overcoming the stereotypes of perception and transitioning through cultural space; finds the reflection of the idea of universality underlying the poetology of Novalis.