West-East identity: the case of Henry von Heiseler (translatedfrom German by I.A. Kochev)

The article explores the question of the possibility of dual identity’s existence at the junction of different civilizations and, in particular, of West-East identity which goes beyond dual citizenship or bilingualism - an identity which rests on genuine integration of the two mentalities and spiritual traditions. Through the case of Russian-German poet Henry von Heiseler, the author shows that East and West are not mutually exclusive but can harmoniously coexist in one human being and form a single cultural identity. Based on the analysis of personal correspondence of Henry von Heiseler with his friends and loved ones and of his memories, the author reveals the transformation of the poet’s identity - from Russian-German to German and back to Russian-German - and analyzes the poet’s emotions concerning the difficult choice between the Russian and German identities which he had to face due to life circumstances - the World War I and the October Revolution in Russia. Particular attention is paid to the issue of the spiritual quest of people wandering between the worlds and to the reconciling potential of religion.

Keywords

Authors

References