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Constitution and narrative : Peculiarities of rhetoric and genre in the foundational laws of the USSR and the Russian federation
Journal
Studies in East European Thought
ISSN
0925-9392
Type
journal article
Date Issued
2010-10-27
Author(s)
Abstract
Constitutions are not just legal texts but form a narrative with an engaging plot, a hierarchy of actors and a distinct ideology. They can be read and interpreted as literary texts. The four constitutions in 20th century Russia (1924, 1936, 1977, 1993) can be attributed to specific genres (drama, fairy tale, gospel, performance). Moreover, they interact closely with the official culture of their time (painting, collage, film, literature). The constitutions serve an important task in the cultural self-definition of Russian society which as a rule occurred in moments of ideological crisis. The case of Russia is especially intriguing since the utopian project of a just society needed in every stage of its evolution (revolution, consolidation, 'developed socialism', postcommunism) a new convincing design which was able to guarantee the citizens' loyalty to the state.
Language
English
HSG Classification
contribution to scientific community
Refereed
Yes
Publisher
Springer Science
Publisher place
Dordrecht
Volume
62
Number
3/4
Start page
431
End page
451
Pages
21
Subject(s)
Eprints ID
69970