The graduate thesis examines the key themes in the novels of Vinko Möderndorfer, presenting a detailed analysis of his historical novel A Second Past (Druga preteklost). It focuses on the question of whether it can be considered a novel of reconciliation.
Möderndorfer’s novels Tek za rdečo hudičevko, Pokrajina št. 2, Predmestje, Omejen rok trajanja, Ljubezni sinjebradca, Nespečnost, Odprla sem oči in šla k oknu, Opoldne nekega dne, Nihče več ne piše pisem, Konec zgodbe and Druga preteklost are modified traditional novels with attributes of realism, employing contemporary language to paint a realistic picture of the social circumstances of the time. The novels in question incorporate three main themes: eroticism/love, social criticism, and war, specifically the partisan movement. The author approaches the more intimate eroticism and love through (humorous) irony, using it to successfully overturn the literary trope of man as the amorous conqueror and the woman’s saviour/protector. The social critique, which focuses on less successful, marginalized individuals, is present throughout most of the novels. In the historical and social novel A Second Past it is on equal footing with the war/partisan theme and the love story. Vinko Möderndorfer approaches unresolved inter- and post-World War II trauma with significant empathy, inviting the reader to ethically reflect on the text. In terms of its composition, the story of A Second Past points to the author’s conviction that injustices and reconciliation are best left to life itself.
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