Comparing the characters with modern interpretations in literature and art
Comparing the nativity characters, Gogol’s heroes with the modern vision of these images in literature and art, it is observed that the devil often acts as a symbol of internal conflicts or external trials, with a more metaphorical and philosophical meaning.
Modern art often portrays the image of the witch in a different way, giving it more positive and complex features. Witches can symbolize strength, independence, and sometimes wisdom. Exploring this image in various forms of art, I will give an example of the film “Maleficent” – an adventure-drama film directed by Robert Stromberg based on the fairy tale “Sleeping Beauty” by Charles Perrault. Starring Angelina Jolie and Elle Fanning. The film was first released on May 28, 2014. A young sorceress, a horned and winged fairy, Maleficent led a secluded life in an enchanted forest, surrounded by fairy-tale creatures, but one day everything changed… People who brought evil with them entered her world, and Maleficent had to stand up for their subjects. Both Solokha and Maleficent live in two worlds: heavenly and earthly; next to Solokha is the devil, next to the sorceress is her faithful raven, which turns into a person. As in M. Gogol, so in the movie, these worlds are connected, good defeats evil.
Prince Philip (the movie “The Witch”), as well as the blacksmith Vakula, are presented as symbols of indomitability and devotion, they are ready for a lot for the sake of their loved ones.
Modern art portrays Oksana as a more complex character, combining both traditional and modern feminine traits, such as independence and strength of character. A bright example of such a character is Aurora, the heroine of the film “The Witch. Mistress of darkness.” It seems that the young queen will understand everything only when the enemy army comes to her land (Appendix 1,2).
M. Gogol’s characters inspire modern artists to create masterpieces in which archetypal images are reproduced in a new context.
In theater, film, literature, and the visual arts, these characters often take on new forms, reflecting contemporary themes and issues.
Through these images, modern art explores the universal themes of love, power, and choice, and at the same time reflects changes in social attitudes and values.