Tautinės keistenybės tarpukario Lietuvoje
National peculiarities in interwar Lithuania

Summary/Abstract: This article discusses manifestations of national mass culture that were inspired by the national politics of the young state. On the basis of archival material and periodical publications of the 1920-30s, attempt is made to expose various manifestations of the national movement and to determine their roots and characteristics of spread. The aspects that have left the deepest mark on Lithuanian culture are chosen for analysis. Much attention is devoted to the fashion of wearing the national costume, which stimulated the rise of folk crafts, and to the reborn interest in national dance, national foods, and national-style handwork. Furthermore, the article provides an account of the encouragement of artistic activity among the scouts and rural youth grouped into Circles of the Young Farmers, and considers the issues of consistent romantization of the state's past and introduction of the cult of national heroes, which were viewed as subjects promoting patriotic feelings.The conclusion is made that the national movement engaged various groups of society and developed the stereotypes of the 'own' culture within the consciousness of the people. The civic consciousness of the citizens of the Republic of Lithuania manifested itself during important historical moments (e.g., when the country was represented at world exhibitions ordinary citizens could express their opinion about them). The author holds the view that today it is important to be aware of the efforts made in the interwar years by public figures to return the national peculiarities to the culture of that time and to revalue them.

• Details
• Contents