The master's thesis entitled Balkanism in the film Čefurji Raus tries first to define and place the Balkans geographically. In the following, it defines and explains in detail the terms Balkanism, Balkanization, and Orientalism. It touches upon the image of the Balkans in mass media and the treatment of the Balkans as the European Other. Today, the Balkans are characterized by negative connotations, such as aggression, violence, backwardness, and savagery. It represents much more than a mere geographical concept, which is why its definition is still a very complex and active topic of various discussions today. Through the conception of the Balkans, the concept of Balkanism was formed, which will be the central guide of the entire master's thesis. Balkanism manifests itself in society today in many ways, but it is most evident in popular culture. After defining the concept of the Balkans, the aim is to analyze the presentation of Balkanisms in the film Čefurji Raus. This specific film was chosen for analysis because of the success it experienced on Slovenian soil. Before the actual analysis, we will define its title or define the debasive term »čefur«. In the following, the methods of approach semiology and representation will be used, on the basis of which Balkanism will be discussed in the concrete film on several levels. The latter will cover gender roles, film music, stereotypes, and non-verbal communication.
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