The Myth of the National Poet, Used in the Present Romanian Political Discourse. What Is New?

Abstract

The present study proposes to reflect on the theme of the national poet – and the avatars of this romantic figure in contemporary Romanian culture. Mihai Eminescu, the “Romanian national poet par excellence”, is a mythical figure from whom we must admit that it is difficult to separate ourselves, even in the 21st century. This tenacious figure of national mythology reflects certain problems of society, as well as of Romanian culture – and it testifies to a particular survival of national Romanticism. The article discusses his presence in the contemporary Romanian political field, based on some very recent samples, in order to configure a reflection on the relations between politics and literature, in contemporary Romania.