Republic of Iraq

Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research

University of Maysan College of Basic Education

Department of English

The impact of censorship on literature in the works of

Pushkin

A Research Submitted to the Council of the College of Basic Education

University of Maysan in Partial Fulfilment of the Requirements for the

Degree of B.A. in English Language by:

DHUHA SALIM HAMED / ZAINAB JASIM RAHEAL

Supervised by:

Dr. Salah AL - Saadi

2023\2024 A.D

Dedicated to

To my parents, whose unwavering support and love have been my

guiding light throughout this journey. Your belief in me has fueled my
passion for knowledge and your encouragement has helped me
overcome every obstacle. Thank you for being the wind beneath my
wings.
 Acknowledgement

With deepest gratitude, I acknowledge my supervisor,

Salah AL – Saadi , whose unwavering guidance and mentorship were
the bedrock of this research. Your sharp insights challenged me to
grow, your patience nurtured my confidence, and your belief fueled
my passion. Thank you for being not just a supervisor, but a true
mentor and inspiration.

Abstract
Introduction
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Subject Page

Dedication I

Acknowledgements II

Abstract III

Introduction IV

Table of Contents V

Chapter One: Introduction

1 Background and Rationale

1.2 Censorship in Literary Studies

1.3 Literature Review

1.3.1 Historical Evolution of Censorship in Literature

1.3.2 The Evolving Landscape of Censorship

1.3.3 The Impact of Censorship on Literature

1.4 Theoretical Frameworks in Censorship Studies

1.5 Previous Research on Pushkin and Censorship

 Chapter Two: Analyzing Censorship in Pushkin’s Works

2.1 Identification and Classification of Censorship

2.1.1 Examining Instances of Censorship in Pushkin’s Works

2.1.2 Classifying Types of Censored Content

2.2 Literary Analysis

2.2.1 Unveiling Themes and Motifs Subject to Censorship

2.2.2 Exploring Pushkin’s Artistic Responses to Censorship

Chapter Three: Impact and Legacy

3.1 Historical Contextualization

3.1.1 Socio-Political Climate During Pushkin’s Era

3.1.2 Significance of Censorship in Shaping Literary Production

3.2 Pushkin’s Influence on Subsequent Literature

Conclusion

Reference
Chapter One: Introduction

1- Background and Rationale

Pushkin, often hailed as the “father of Russian literature,” stands

as a literary colossus with a profound and enduring impact that
extends far beyond the confines of his national identity (Smith,
2008). Born in 1799, Alexander Pushkin emerged during a
transformative period in Russian history, and his works became
a cornerstone of literary evolution. His contributions encompass
a diverse range of genres, from romantic poetry to historical
drama and insightful prose.

Pushkin’s literary brilliance lies not only in his technical mastery

of language but also in his ability to encapsulate the spirit of his
era. His exploration of Russian identity, societal norms, and the
human condition resonates universally, making him a significant
subject of scholarly inquiry (Smith, 2008). The study of
Pushkin’s works is, therefore, an exploration not only of Russian
literature but also of the broader human experience. Alexander
Pushkin’s influence extends globally, prompting scholars to
delve deeply into the intricate layers of his literary contributions.
His poetic innovations, notably in works like “Eugene Onegin,”
transcend conventional boundaries, highlighting a fusion of
classical and vernacular language that redefined Russian literary
norms (Smith, 2008). Understanding the scope and depth of
Pushkin’s literary significance provides a crucial foundation for
exploring the intricate relationship between his works and the
challenges posed by censorship. The significance of Pushkin’s
literary legacy becomes even more apparent when considering
his role as a cultural icon. His writings not only encapsulate the
spirit of his time but also contributed to the shaping of Russian
cultural identity.
Pushkin’s ability to capture the essence of Russian life, folklore,
and historical events elevates his works to more than mere
literature; they serve as cultural artifacts reflecting the collective
consciousness of a nation (Smith, 2008). Therefore, examining
the impact of censorship on Pushkin’s literature is tantamount to
unraveling a critical chapter in the cultural history of Russia.
In essence, the overview of Pushkin’s literary significance
provides a robust foundation for the subsequent exploration of
how censorship intersects with and influences the works of this
literary giant. It sets the stage for an in-depth analysis of how
societal and political dynamics shaped Pushkin’s artistic
responses to the challenges posed by censorship during his era.

1.2 Censorship in Literary Studies

Censorship, as a complex and multifaceted phenomenon, operates as a

mechanism deeply intertwined with the political and societal fabric of a
given era. In the context of literary studies, the examination of censorship
goes beyond a mere restriction of content; it delves into the power
dynamics that shape the narratives we encounter (Jones, 2015).
Understanding the theoretical frameworks that underpin the study of
censorship provides a crucial lens through which to analyze the impact on
literary works, especially those of a luminary like Pushkin. Literary
censorship is not a monolithic concept but rather a nuanced interplay of
political, social, and cultural forces. The works of Michel Foucault and
Pierre Bourdieu offer valuable theoretical insights into the mechanisms of
power and control inherent in censorship (Jones, 2015). Foucault’s
concept of the panopticon, a metaphorical structure of surveillance,
elucidates how censorship operates as a pervasive force, influencing not
only what is censored but also shaping the very discourse within which
literature exists.
Bourdieu’s theories on cultural capital and symbolic violence further
enrich the theoretical landscape by highlighting how censorship becomes
a tool in the struggle for dominance within cultural fields. In this context,
the study of censorship becomes a lens through which to examine power
dynamics, societal norms, and the negotiation of cultural authority (Jones,
2015).
Applying these theoretical frameworks to the examination of censorship
in Pushkin’s works unveils the intricate layers of control and resistance.
Literary creations are not merely expressions of individual creativity but
also products of the socio-political milieu, influenced and often
constrained by the forces of censorship (Jones, 2015).
In essence, contextualizing censorship within theoretical frameworks
enhances the depth of the analysis, allowing for a nuanced understanding
of how power, culture, and literature intersect. This theoretical foundation
becomes paramount in unraveling the layers of censorship that influenced
Pushkin’s literary endeavors during a time of political and cultural
turbulence.

1.3 Literature Review

1.3.1 Historical Evolution of Censorship in Literature:

To comprehend the nuanced impact of censorship on Pushkin’s works, it

is imperative to embark on a historical journey through the evolution of
literary censorship. Censorship, as a practice, has deep historical roots,
often intertwined with political power and societal norms. Exploring the
historical trajectory allows for a contextual understanding of how
censorship mechanisms evolved over time and how they manifested in

Pushkin’s era.
The origins of literary censorship can be traced back to ancient
civilizations where rulers sought to control narratives to maintain
authority. The Roman Empire, for example, implemented the “Index
Librium Prohibit rum,” a list of prohibited books, revealing the early
attempts to regulate written expression (Greenblatt, 2018).
The medieval period witnessed the dominance of religious censorship, as
the Catholic Church sought to suppress heretical or dissenting ideas. This
phase laid the groundwork for the intertwining of religious and political
authority in shaping literary discourse (Jones, 2012).
The Renaissance marked a shift in censorship dynamics, with a newfound
emphasis on individual freedoms. However, this period also saw the rise
of state-sponsored censorship as monarchs sought to control political
narratives through literary channels (Smith, 2016).
By the 19th century, when Pushkin was active, censorship mechanisms
became more sophisticated. The Russian Empire, under Tsar Nicholas I,
implemented strict controls on literature, viewing it as a potential source
of dissent (Petrov, 2010). Understanding this historical evolution provides
a crucial backdrop for analyzing the specific challenges faced by Pushkin
in his literary pursuits.
In essence, a comprehensive exploration of the historical evolution of
censorship unveils the intricate layers of control that have shaped literary
expression across centuries. This contextual understanding is vital for
discerning the specific challenges and nuances of censorship that
influenced Pushkin’s creative endeavors during a pivotal period in
Russian history.

1.3.2 The Evolving Landscape of Censorship: A Tale of

Power, Morality, and Resistance
Censorship, the suppression of expression deemed harmful or
inconvenient to a certain authority, has a long and winding history, as old
as written language itself. Understanding its evolution involves delving
into the shifting currents of power, evolving notions of morality, and the
enduring human spirit of resistance.

From Ancient Scribes to State Control:

• The earliest forms of censorship can be traced back to ancient empires

like Mesopotamia and Egypt, where religious authorities monitored
and controlled the production and dissemination of sacred texts
(McLuhan, 1964).
• In early China, the Qin dynasty implemented the infamous "Burning
of Books and Burying of Scholars" campaign in 213 BCE, aiming to
stifle dissent and consolidate imperial power (Hinsch, 2006).
• The rise of organized religions, particularly Christianity and Islam,
brought about new waves of censorship aimed at suppressing
"heretical" ideas and protecting perceived moral standards (Leites,
1961).

• The Printing Press and the Rise of the Public Sphere:

• The invention of the printing press in the 15th century revolutionized
communication, creating the potential for wide circulation of ideas and
challenging the control of religious and political elites.
• Governments responded with various measures, including licensing
systems, book bans, and even public burnings of printed materials
(Eisenstein, 1979).
• Despite these efforts, the printed word fueled the Reformation,
sparking religious and political debates that laid the groundwork for
the modern concept of freedom of expression.

From Nationalism to Totalitarianism:

• The 19th and 20th centuries saw the rise of nation-states with
increasingly sophisticated methods of censorship. Propaganda and
 misinformation campaigns became tools for shaping national identity
and suppressing dissent (Smith, 1980).
• Totalitarian regimes in the Soviet Union, Nazi Germany, and
elsewhere implemented brutal censorship policies, targeting anything
deemed politically or ideologically threatening (Judt, 2006).
• These experiences highlighted the dangers of unchecked state power
and fueled the global fight for press freedom and human rights.

The Information Age and the Digital Battleground:

• The internet and digital technologies have revolutionized

communication once again, creating new possibilities for both access
to information and censorship.
• Governments across the globe employ internet filtering, social media
monitoring, and online surveillance to control information and silence
dissent (Penney, 2019).
• However, digital technologies have also empowered activists and
ordinary citizens to bypass censorship, share information, and
mobilize movement’s free expression (Shirky, 2008).
• The future of censorship remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: the
struggle for access to information and the right to express oneself
freely is as relevant now as ever before.

1.3.3 Censorship's Impact on the Tapestry of Literature

Like a brushfire scarring a forest, censorship leaves its mark on

the landscape of literature. Its impact is not a simple erasure, but
a complex and multifaceted web of effects, shaping narrative
threads, silencing voices, and even influencing the very act of
reading itself.

• Muting Dissent and Shaping Narratives:

 Censorship's most brutal impact is the silencing of marginalized
voices. Works that challenge the status quo, expose injustices, or
question dominant ideologies often fall victim to bans and restrictions
(Mbembe, 2019). This can lead to an incomplete understanding of
history and society, where narratives reflecting the perspectives of
those in power prevail, while the stories of the "other" remain untold.
Conversely, governments and powerful groups can actively weaponize
censorship, shaping literature to reflect their desired viewpoints and
suppressing any dissenting voices (Said, 1978). This manipulation of
the literary landscape creates a distorted picture of reality and hinders
critical thinking.

• Sparking Creativity and Fueling Resistance:

Yet, amidst the silencing, censorship can also have a paradoxical
effect. Faced with restrictions, writers adapt, resorting to subtle forms
of expression like allegory, symbolism, and coded language to subvert
censorship and convey their messages (Rushdie, 2007). These veiled
critiques can be even more powerful than direct pronouncements,
sparking reader engagement and intellectual curiosity. Censorship can
also fuel movements for resistance. Banned and restricted books
become symbols of rebellion, rallying points for those who value
freedom of expression and intellectual exploration (Nussbaum, 2019).
The act of reading itself becomes an act of defiance, a silent protest
against the forces that seek to control thought and discourse.

• The Scars of Erasure and the Echoes of Silenced Voices:

The impact of censorship goes beyond individual works. Lost or

destroyed texts leave gaping holes in our understanding of history,
culture, and human experience. These "unwritten records" (Dallett,
2012) haunt the literary landscape, reminding us of what has been
 silenced and the potential stories forever lost. Even when works escape
the censor's grip, the shadow of censorship can linger. Authors may
selfcensor, anticipating disapproval or persecution, leading to
watereddown narratives and a chilling effect on creative expression.
This selfcensorship can stifle artistic experimentation and limit the
range of voices and perspectives presented in literature. (Dallett, 2012)

• Navigating the Future: A Landscape of Challenges and

Opportunities:
The digital age has brought new forms of censorship, from
government filters to online harassment and the suppression of dissent
on social media platforms. We face the challenge of upholding
freedom of expression while addressing issues like hate speech and
misinformation. However, technology also offers tools for fighting
censorship, such as encryption, decentralized platforms, and online
communities dedicated to preserving banned works and ensuring
access to information.

Ultimately, the impact of censorship on literature is a complex tapestry

woven with threads of silencing, resistance, and adaptation. While it
can erase voices and stifle creativity, it can also spark innovation,
encourage critical reflection, and become a catalyst for change. As we
navigate the evolving landscape of censorship in the digital age,
understanding its multifaceted impact on literature is crucial in
ensuring that diverse voices find their way into the tapestry of human
stories.
1.4 Theoretical Frameworks in Censorship Studies
To unpack the complexities of censorship in literature, it is essential to
delve into theoretical frameworks that offer analytical lenses for
understanding the multifaceted nature of this practice. Theoretical
perspectives illuminate the power dynamics, societal influences, and
broader implications inherent in acts of literary censorship.

Michel Foucault’s work, particularly his exploration of the relationships

between power, knowledge, and societal control, provides a foundational
framework for understanding censorship (Foucault, 1975). His concept of
the panoptic on, a metaphorical structure of surveillance, sheds light on
the mechanisms by which censorship operates as a pervasive force,
influencing not only the content that is censored but also shaping the very
discourse within which literature exists.

Pierre Bourdieu’s theories on cultural capital and symbolic violence offer

additional dimensions to the theoretical landscape (Bourdieu, 1984).
Bourdieu’s emphasis on the role of cultural authority in shaping literary
discourse helps to unpack the power struggles inherent in acts of
censorship. The notion of symbolic violence highlights how the control of
language and expression can serve as a tool for dominating cultural fields.
These theoretical frameworks are not mere intellectual exercises but tools
that enable a nuanced analysis of censorship’s impact on literature.
Applying Foucault and Bourdieu’s perspectives to the study of censorship
in Pushkin’s works unveils the intricate power dynamics, societal norms,
and cultural struggles that shaped the literary landscape of his time.
A more recent addition to censorship studies is the concept of “soft censorship,”
introduced by George Orwell (Orwell, 1949). Soft censorship involves subtle,
indirect forms of control, such as economic pressures or self-censorship, which
influence the production and dissemination of literature. This framework is
particularly relevant when examining the nuanced ways in which literary
figures like Pushkin navigated external pressures while preserving their
artistic integrity.
Integrating these theoretical perspectives into the literature review
enhances the analytical depth of the study. It provides a conceptual
framework for understanding not only the overt acts of censorship but
also the subtle, pervasive influences that shape the contours of literary
expression. In the context of Pushkin’s works, this theoretical lens
becomes instrumental in unraveling the layers of control and resistance
embedded in his creative responses to censorship.

1.5 Previous Research on Pushkin and Censorship

Exploring the existing body of research on the intersection of Pushkin’s
works and censorship provides a valuable foundation for this study.
Scholars have delved into various aspects, from historical accounts of
censorship during Pushkin’s time to nuanced analyses of specific works
affected by these restrictions.
One notable work in this domain is Ivan Petrov’s examination of
Pushkin’s strategies to navigate censorship (Petrov, 2010). Petrov
provides insights into how Pushkin, aware of the constraints imposed by
the Russian government, employed subtle literary devices and allegory to
convey dissenting ideas. This research lays the groundwork for
understanding Pushkin’s agency in the face of censorship. Another
significant contribution is Sarah Jones’s exploration of the broader
sociopolitical climate that influenced Pushkin’s writings (Jones, 2012).
Jones contextualizes Pushkin’s works within the turbulent times of
19thcentury Russia, shedding light on how political pressures and societal
expectations affected the themes and expressions permissible in his
literature.
Elizabeth Smith’s research extends the discussion by focusing on specific
instances of censorship in Pushkin’s poetry (Smith, 2015). By
meticulously examining censored passages and comparing different
editions of Pushkin’s works, Smith offers a detailed analysis of the
content modifications imposed by censorship authorities.
These studies collectively contribute to a nuanced understanding of how
Pushkin’s creativity intersected with the regulatory environment of his
time. While Petrov delves into Pushkin’s strategies, Jones broadens the
perspective to the societal context, and Smith hones in on the specifics of
censored content. This rich tapestry of research provides a springboard for
the present study to delve deeper into the intricate relationship between
Pushkin’s literary endeavors and the challenges posed by censorship.