RT info:eu-repo/semantics/article
T1 Paradigms of Heroism: Perspectives on Epigraphs in Nadinc Gordimer
A1 Baena Molina, Rosalía
AB This article aims to study intertextuality in the novels of NadineGordimer, specifically in her use of epigraphs. The location of the epigraphat the beginning of the novels provides the reader with a frameworkfrom which to view and judge the text and offer an interestingplatform for the exploration of meaning in Gordimer. Epigraphs andtitles may be considered a new voice that contributes to the “recentering”of the narrative perspective; it adds powerful meaning to the wholenovel. As such, the epigraphs acquire the category of “voices” that claim,describe, point out or argue relevant issues of both literary and politicalimportance. An analysis of the quotations selected demonstrate howthese are closely and directly related to the content of the novels themselvesand express the mood in which the books are written. This paperwill analyze Gordimer’s choice and use of epigraphs as an approach toa more profound understanding of her narrative technique: as a signifyingtool for the development of meaning. More specifically, it willattempt to present the use of epigraphs in Gordimer’s novels as theappropriation of new voices that contribute to the “recentering” of culturalcontext, theme and narrative perspective. On the one hand, mostof Gordimer’s epigraphs are quotes from major European writers. Thissignals a link between the European cultural background and the SouthAfrican present, as it serves as a discourse of translation of their meaningsinto new South African ones. These intertexts play a central role inthe novels, as they allow for the creation of a specific South Africanliterary identity. On the other hand, Gordimer also incorporates nativetexts, that may represent the African voice trying to come to terms withthe new realities of life in South Africa.
PB Servicio de Publicaciones. Universidad de La Laguna
SN e-2530-8335
YR 1997
FD 1997
LK http://riull.ull.es/xmlui/handle/915/30585
UL http://riull.ull.es/xmlui/handle/915/30585
LA en
DS Repositorio institucional de la Universidad de La Laguna
RD 24-nov-2024