What question did this study set out to answer?

This article aims to explore the influences of Decadence and Symbolism in Rodenbach's work, particularly through certain key figures.

May 28, 2026

Articles La Sainte, la Fée et la Muse dans les romans de Georges Rodenbach

Key Points

This article aims to explore the influences of Decadence and Symbolism in Rodenbach's work, particularly through certain key figures.
Analyzed Rodenbach's literary works including L'Art en exil, Brugesla-Morte, La Vocation, and Le Carillonneur.
Examined the symbolic roles and interactions of the figures such as the Widower, Saint, and Fairy.
Investigated the parodic reinterpretations of these characters in Jean Lorrain's work.
Identified the roles of the myth of the Dead City as a Muse, reflecting on the fin-de-siècle Artist.
Revealed the complexities in the relationships and rivalries between the central figures.
Demonstrated how Rodenbach's work embodies both anti-modern and avant-garde characteristics.

Abstract

The article first specifies what Rodenbach, a fin-de-siècle novelist, borrows from Decadence and Symbolism, taking into account the simultaneously marginal and privileged status he owes to his “belgitude.” It then proceeds to analyze, with reference to L'Art en exil, Brugesla-Morte, La Vocation, and Le Carillonneur, the development and functions of the figures of the Widower, the Saint, and the Fairy, exploring their analogies, rivalries, interweaving, as well as their symbolic attributes. The article shows how the myth of the Dead City functions as both mirror and Muse, enabling Rodenbach to draft a reflection on the fin-de-siècle Artist, at once anti-modern and avant-garde. It concludes with an examination of the parodic avatars of these figures in the work of Jean Lorrain.

Mark Helpful

Bookmark

Relay