W POTRZASKU STRACHU I PROPAGANDY – POLSKIE TEATRY WE LWOWIE 1939–1941
TRAPPED BETWEEN FEAR AND PROPAGANDA: POLISH THEATRES IN LVIV, 1939–1941

Summary/Abstract: This paper explores the situation faced by Polish theatre and theatre professionals during the Soviet occupation of Lviv between 1939 and 1941. The Soviet authorities aimed to undermine Polish national culture by severing its roots and attempting to establish a new, foreign Polish-Soviet tradition. Consequently, Polish theatre was compelled to engage in propaganda activities aligned with the goals of the occupying state. The Soviet regime devised a cunning trap for Polish artists. On the one hand, it instilled fear through repressive measures against all Poles. On the other hand, it provided a certain level of security for theatrical professionals, treating them more leniently compared to their compatriots. Some individuals displayed extreme opportunism, actively parti- cipating in propaganda activities, while others took a more passive approach. However, there were also heroic attempts made by some to resist the occupiers, primarily through underground initiatives, often organised within Lviv’s Catholic Churches.

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