Artistic Interpretation of the Femme Fatale Motif inNarcyza Żmichowska’s Novel «Poganka»

Abstract

The aim of the publication is to determine the originality of the interpretation of the femme fatale motif in Narcyza Żmichowska’s novel «Poganka» and to clarify the complexity and multifaceted nature of the main character, who embodies the figure of a fatal woman. Achieving this aim involves the use of the following methods: cultural-historical, psychoanalytical, and textological analysis.

The results. The femme fatale motif occupies an important place in European literature of the 19th century, especially during the Romanticism. The fatal woman is a beautiful, attractive, and at the same time destructive figure who leads the hero to

his downfall. It has been established that in Polish literature of Romanticism, particularly in ballads «Lilije», «Świteziankа», «Dudarz» by Adam Mickiewicz, and in poem «Balladyna» by Juliusz Słowacki, such a woman becomes a contradictory figure: she is a source of passion, but also the cause of despair and death.

It has been determined that Narcyza Żmichowska was one of the first Polish female writers, who introduced the image of the femme fatale in the literature of the 19th-century. The characteristic features of the femme fatale psychotype have been identified: mystery, demonic qualities, the ability to manipulate men, uncompromising nature, and heartlessness. Aspasia, the main character of the novel

«Poganka», is presented as an ambiguous character, who combines the traits of a liberated, spiritually independent woman with the archetype of the femme fatale, who destroys the man through the power of her otherness and incompatibility with social norms. She is a self-confident, charismatic heroine who uses her social status and seductive appearance to entice men.

It has been established that in her relationship with Benjamin, she seeks only pleasure and satisfaction, without concern for her partner’s feelings. Aspasia turns into a destructive demon, as under the influence of her fatal passion, Benjamin loses all his spiritual values and deprives his life of any meaning.

In the conclusions it is emphasized that Narcyza Żmichowska offers the unique interpretation of the femme fatale motif in novel «Poganka». Aspasia defiles Benjamin both spiritually and physically. Like a vampire, she drains the life from him, feeding on his energy. As a result, Benjamin loses his vitality, while Aspasia gains strength, inspiration, and becomes more powerful.