Language:
English
Year of publication:
2012
Titel der Quelle:
Naharaim
Angaben zur Quelle:
6,1 (2012) 20-37
Keywords:
Becker, Jurek,
;
Jews Historiography
;
Jewish literature History and criticism
Abstract:
Analyzes the narrative strategy of "Jakob der Lügner", which includes the use of three narrator voices (including that of Becker himself), oscillation between a distinct historical fiction and pure fiction, numerous biblical allusions, and at the same time the choice of comedy, with a great measure of macabre humor, as a form. Interprets the novel as a Jewish testimonial narrative that transgresses the sacred tradition of language with respect to the Jewish literature of trauma and literary representation of the Holocaust. It is this testimonial approach that gives the narrative such an aura of authenticity. Compares "Jakob der Lügner" to medieval Hebrew texts compiled as responses to catastrophic events, such as the Crusader massacres of 1096. Contends that the narrative strategy of the novel as the testimonial voice of a Jew, rather than a general victim of fascism, was the beginning of Becker's break with the official socialist realism of East German literature.
DOI:
10.1515/naha-2012-0003
URL:
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