FOREIGN ENEMIES AND “INSIDERS” IN THE WORKS OF O. DE

Abstract

The study discusses the labeling of characters in O. De's works as "insiders" and "outsiders". He classifies as "insiders" those who are concerned about Ukraine's fate or misfortune, who have Ukrainian roots, regardless of where they were born or which army life has placed them in. "Insiders" are humane, sociable, brave, loyal, and help each other even at the risk of their own lives. They are beautiful, hardworking people who take pleasure in creating rather than destroying. They dream of a peaceful life on their own land with their families. O. De treats all nationalities with respect and tolerance, as every person carries their own culture, which is interesting and unique in its own way. Characters in O. De's works do not perceive representatives of other cultures as enemies. However, those who uphold "Soviet" and Nazi ideology are labeled as alien enemies in the author's works. They evoke not only rejection but also hatred and contempt, and they are justly depicted as embodiments of evil. The first group consists of Russians who impose "Soviet" culture on the world—they flood Ukraine with blood, starve it, destroy its culture (nationalist means criminal), and rewrite history. The second group consists of German Nazis who, like the Rashists, are insane criminal fanatics who despise other nationalities, do not value human life, and have filled the world with suffering.