For all who draw the sword will die by the sword: the symbolism of Filipp Iankovskii's The Sword Bearer

Author: Strukov, Vlad

Source: Studies in Russian & Soviet Cinema, Volume 4, Number 2, July 2010 , pp. 171-185(15)

Publisher: Intellect

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Abstract:

The article explores the symbolism of Filipp Iankovskii's The Sword Bearer (2006) in the context of the film's retributive policies and with the purpose of defining the function of nemesis in the cinematic text in relation to its representational strategies. The study is within the general strand of investigation of the filmic representation of affective states in the context of their national cultural tradition. The article presents a number of readings of the film, including psychoanalytical (Luce Irigaray) and philosophical (Russian mysticism) approaches, especially in relation to mimetic theory. Comparisons between the film and its American and Russian precursors are drawn to highlight universal and specific aspects of the conflict and its visual presentation. Finally, the article puts forward a theory regarding the connection between contemporary Russian film and the philosophical, literary and artistic legacy of the Russian fin de sicle by drawing extensively on filmic, literary and fine art analogies, including artworks by Mikhail Vrubel.

Keywords: retribution; affective states; psychoanalysis; symbolism; mysticism; metaphysics

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1386/srsc.4.2.171_1

Affiliations: 1: University of Leeds.

Publication date: 2010-07-01

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Studies in Russian & Soviet Cinema focuses on pre-revolutionary, Soviet and post- Soviet film, its aesthetic development, and its position between ideology and industry. SRSC invites contributions that constitute original research. The journal seeks to promote research from established scholars as well as to encourage researchers new to the field.
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