THE CASTAWAY MYTH IN WORLD LITERATURE AND CINEMA
THE CASTAWAY MYTH IN WORLD LITERATURE AND CINEMA

Summary/Abstract: The transfer of literary works into cinematic adaptations can be equally considered as any other translations in any different language or any postmodernist re-writing, allowing novels to become part of the esteemed realm of World Literature. Rewriting films or literature can be seen as a reflection of the social, political, or ideological climate of any given period. A powerful example of this indicating function is represented by the extensive series of adaptations and translations inspired by the shipwreck narrative of Robinson Crusoe and the wide circulation of the castaway myth.This paper investigates the connections between cinematic depictions of the castaway narrative and postmodern reinterpretations of Crusoe’s myth in World Literature. For this approach, we shall choose to analyse Luis Buñuel’s “Aventuras de Robinson Crusoe” (Mexico, 1954), Lisa Wertmüller’s “Travolti da un insolito destino nell’azzuro mare d’agosto” (Italy, 1974) and “Man Friday” directed by Jack Gold (United Kingdom, 1976). Two techniques of engaging with the modern myth of Robinson Crusoe are demonstrated in these cinematic versions of the Robinsonade: the first is an allegorical approach, and the second is a direct interpretation of the castaway’s adventures. From the point of view of World Literature, we shall focus on Michel Tournier’s “Vendredi et les limbes du Pacifique” (1967) and J.M. Coetzee’s “Foe” (1986). These rewritings enter into a critical dialogue with Daniel Defoe’s novel, writing back the story from the margins to the centre. Consequently, as texts qualify as World Literature, film adaptations may gain through cinematic versions by estranging us from our local/national culture and introducing us to a different one.

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