It-tema tal-barrani fin-narrattiva Maltija moderna

Abstract

This thesis seeks to examine the role played by post Independence novelists in trying to connect with developments which had already taken place in the European literary scene at the tum of the 20th Century. Economic, scientific, technological and philosophical innovations had a great influence on society in general and on sensitive people such as poets, novelists and dramatists in particular. This influence is reflected in their varied works which introduced new themes and forms of literary exposition. New interpretations regarding man's existence and his relationship with society as manifested by modem European novelists found their way into the consciousness of the young Maltese novelists of the sixties who, on their part, were deluded with the aftermath of Independence. This delusion led to the surfacing of a different type of hero the anti-hero or outsider who echoed, mainly through his rebellious actions, the discontent experienced by many Maltese. The outsider points an accusing finger towards traditional institutions which, through their powerful grip, kept Maltese society at bay from experiencing innovations taking place around the globe especially in the religious and political scene. The outsider observes, analyses and criticises the role and duty of the Church which, in the novels of the seventies, is represented by the village priest. Through the eyes of these novelists, Malta is seen as one village which is controlled by the parish priest. So great is the power of this priest that his influence seeps through the smallest social unit, i.e. the family and then moves outwards towards society in general. As a consequence of this influence, indoctrinated crowds act as defenders of the prevalent faith, rites, rituals and traditions. Anybody who is not in tune with all of these is considered an outsider. In the three novels analysed (Il-Gagga and Sammut written by Frans Sammut and Il-Gidba written by Oliver Friggieri), the battlefield is set where two extremes meet: the crowd vs the outsider. No compromise is found, thus leading to the withdrawal of one of these extremes.