The Theme of the Armenian Genocide and the Memory of the Past in Henri Verneuil’s Novel “Mother”
The Theme of the Armenian Genocide and the Memory of the Pastin Henri Verneuil’s Novel “Mother”
Galstyan Nelli
Summary
Key words: memory of the past, individuality, genocide, search for identity, memoir, identity, reality, feeling
In his novel “Mother” (1985), Henri Verneuil addressed the topic of the Armenian Genocide, once again reminding the world community of the tragedy and revival of the Armenian people. Henri Verneuil possessing two identities (a Frenchman and an Armenian) and speaking the French language, was able to show the power of artistic expression of this pain. The purpose of the article is to investigate and evaluate the theme of national identity with its reflections and manifestations through the study of the novel “Mother” by the Armenian-French writer of the 20th century, Henri Verneuil. In the novel, we explore the central issues addressed by the French-Armenian writer Henri Verneuil: the tireless efforts and struggles of the Armenian diaspora to preserve their national identity and their fundamental right to live. Today, in light of the modern challenges and complex circumstances faced by Armenians worldwide, these themes remain highly relevant. Confronting the challenges of his time and the problem of human alienation, Verneuil sought to preserve Armenian national identity, reflect on the fate and existence of Armenians in a foreign reality, and address cultural and genocidal issues. He provided historical, political, national, and moral-psychological assessments, calling for the condemnation of genocide and striving to warn humanity against further unprecedented atrocities.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.58726/27382915-2025.2hs-64