The epic hero on guard of socialism: the influence of state ideology on animated adaptations of epic folklore in the USSR
https://doi.org/10.28995/2686-7249-2025-6-125-139
Abstract
The article examines nine Soviet animated screen adaptations of epic folklore in the context of the influence of state ideology on them. The studied category of animated screenplays is characterized by almost complete preservation of the original folklore plot. To understand the degree of ideological influence on animated screen adaptations of epic folklore in the USSR, it is necessary to look at what versions of the folklore work were not chosen for adaptation, that is, they were not suitable for ideological criteria. Those versions of the story in which the heroes performed feats without regard to the princely power were more preferable for screen adaptation than those in which the heroes’ actions were dictated by a representative of the ruling class. Instead of plots where the heroes are driven by religious motivation, Soviet animation directors chose variants with secular motivation for screen adaptation. Animated bogatyrs are idealized, acting as personifications of the entire Soviet society. Whereas their opponents may refer to real foreign policy opponents of the period of the creation of the screen adaptation.
About the Author
D. A. Ageeva
Russian State University for the Humanities
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Dariya A. Ageeva
6, Miusskaya Sq., Moscow, 125047
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Review
For citations:
Ageeva D.A. The epic hero on guard of socialism: the influence of state ideology on animated adaptations of epic folklore in the USSR. RSUH/RGGU Bulletin: “Literary Teory. Linguistics. Cultural Studies”, Series. 2025;(6):125-139. (In Russ.) https://doi.org/10.28995/2686-7249-2025-6-125-139
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