THE RECEPTION OF JEAN-PAUL SARTRE IN NORTH MACEDONIA: A CULTURAL ENCOUNTER AND INTELLECTUAL INFLUENCE
Dëfrim SALIU, Shejnaze AJDINI-MURTEZI
Abstract
Jean-Paul Sartre, as a leading representative of French existentialism, began to be read and analyzed by literary critics and scholars in the Republic of North Macedonia after the publication of their works in Serbian and later in Macedonian. The reception started with Sartre’s most famous novel Nausea beginning in 1966. Subsequently, his works were translated, including Words, The Condemned of Altona, Dirty Hands and Being and Nothingness. Over a dozen scholarly works discuss Sartre’s life and literary-philosophical work, providing a deep insight into his treatment within the Macedonian cultural system. The reception of Sartre’s philosophy in North Macedonia has had a profound influence on the country’s academic and cultural world. Through translations of his works and extensive analyses made about his life and work, Sartre has become one of the key figures in literary and philosophical studies in Macedonia.
Through these studies, a true enlightenment has been offered on the interpretation of his thought and his influence on Macedonian society. In addition to his literary works, Sartre is also known for his political engagement and his influence on social and intellectual debate. This represented a challenge for a large part of the Macedonian public, opening debates and further analyses on the role of intellectuals in their society. Some critics have questioned his interpretation of existentialism and political engagement, sparking debate about his interpretation and influence on Macedonian society. In conclusion, the reception of Sartre in North Macedonia is an expression of a vibrant relationship between cultures and an example of the profound influence such an intellectual figure can have in a specific cultural context.
Pages:
91-95