Witness Literature – A Conceptual Framework

Abstract

The present paper aims at answering some of the questions prompted by the post-totalitarian analysis of a rather new concept: that of witness literature - a hybrid concept that has been so far only sporadically and delicately addressed by literary theory and criticism. The article presents theoretical considerations regarding the more precise definition of the concept as well as practical aspects related to its relevance to contemporary literature. The positions of literary criticism generally polarize two subthemes: the specific claim of truth inherent to this type of text and the transition from upheaval to creativity turning the victim into testifying witness and writer. The interaction dynamics of literature, testimony, and historiography are further investigated as to reveal and describe the shift of focus and mutations caused by totalitarianism in this respect.