Българските почитатели на фантастика: граници на фендъма
Science fiction and fantasy fans in Bulgaria: Boundaries of fandom

Summary/Abstract: The study aims to explore the dynamics in fan culture – science fiction and fantasy fans in Bulgaria. The construction of fandom as a particular social category is done through the concept of boundaries – those preferences, activities, projects which simultaneously motivate connections and divisions between fans and fan groups. The small scale of the scene enforces close existence and interaction among different generations, preferences, and purposes which is specific for the selected fan culture. Over forty-year-history of existence of fan clubs in Bulgaria is the main reason of enhanced heterogeneity of fandom. The diversity of tastes and interests leads to a variety of projects: such as fanzines, conventions, contests, role-playing games. The opportunity for every participant in fan activities to be in touch with others, both on-line and off-line, leads to switching multiple social roles and identities. Science fiction and fantasy fans in Bulgaria strive to determine their place in the global space of popular genres and audiences and try to invent their own traditions and models of social activities. The artistic production of fans reflects the dynamics in culture, including the interaction between the global and the local. Fans claim their own cultural territory by creating literary works and art based on Bulgarian mythology, history and folklore, or by establishing their own on-line Tolkien University. The Fandom is rationalized and articulated in general as an active and creative community, thus it becomes a social and cultural project in itself.

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