Tales of the East and the West : Transcultural Encounters in Literature and Film

This compelling volume explores the dynamic interplay of East and West through the lens of borderlands and transculturality, delving into the cultural, political, and historical complexities that define these regions. Beyond mere geography, the East and West embody distinct philosophical, socio-political, and linguistic identities, shaped by historical events like the collapse of empires, the Cold War's Iron Curtain, and recent geopolitical shifts, such as Finland's 2023 NATO membership amid Russia's war in Ukraine. Focusing on borderlands - spaces of conflict, hybridity, and transformation - this collection examines how literature and film reflect and shape transcultural identities. From the fluidity of cultural encounters to the challenges of migration and exile, each chapter offers unique theoretical perspectives on how border crossings foster creative resistance and new cultural practices. Featuring contributions from scholars in Germany, Sweden, Finland, and Russia, this book illuminates the transformative potential of East-West borderlands, redefining notions of identity and belonging in a globalized world.