Functions of Headlines in Contemporary Ukrainian Dramaturgy: Liminal Projections

Abstract

This article explores the functions of headlines in contemporary Ukrainian dramatic texts in a liminal projection. Contemporary Ukrainian playwrights embody the genre matrix of transition rituals, which are realized on various textual levels, including headlines. The genre matrix of transition rituals is considered in the article as an author’s strategy of a literary work, able to restore the connection between reality and social mythology, and through an individual author’s interpretation of symbols and myths, revive their sacred meanings. At the same time, such an author's strategy allows him to realize the structure of the transition ritual through the forms aimed at collective reception, shared experience, and unified interpretation for influencing social processes. The plays’ titles of contemporary playwrights exemplify stereotypes and laws of the system, embody archetypes and mythological codes that can become the basis for forming common values. Authors choose title-images that perform the following functions: a performative motivational function; they reflect current themes and issues, create metaphors of the character’s liminal state, demonstrate those values of the structure from which one ought to separate, demonstrate the plot basis, embody the liminal space-time aspect of crisis and search.