Ukrainian Nationalism: Politics, Ideology, and Literature, 1929-1956

by Myroslav Shkandrij

Overview

Both celebrated and condemned, Ukrainian nationalism is one of the most controversial and vibrant topics in contemporary discussions of Eastern Europe. Perhaps today there is no more divisive and heatedly argued topic in Eastern European studies than the activities in the 1930s and 1940s of the Organization of Ukrainian Nationalists (OUN).

This book examines the legacy of the OUN and is the first to consider the movement's literature alongside its politics and ideology. It argues that nationalism's mythmaking, best expressed in its literature, played an important role. In the interwar period seven major writers developed the narrative structures that gave nationalism much of its appeal. For the first time, the remarkable impact of their work is recognized.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780300206289
Publisher:	Yale University Press
Publication date:	01/13/2015
Pages:	344
Product dimensions:	9.30(w) x 6.40(h) x 1.10(d)

About the Author

Myroslav Shkandrij is professor of Slavic studies at the University of Manitoba. He lives in Winnipeg.

Editorial Reviews

 “A very balanced, timely, and refreshingly objective account of radical nationalism.”—David Marples, University of Alberta

David Marples

““Ukrainian nationalism” frequently eludes lucid characterization and contextualization, not to mention sober understanding. At this critical time, Shkandrij’s important book sets out to change this state of affairs. He places the ideological tenets and historical actions of the Organisation of Ukrainian Nationalists within a broader socio-historical and cultural frame, a refreshingly original approach that allows us to see contestation not only within Ukrainian nationalism but also within the OUN itself.”—Rory Finnin, University of Cambridge

Rory Finnin