Literature does more than entertain. If done well, it has a unique ability to address the complexity of human thought in ways that foster mutually beneficial linkages among competing political perspectives and mentalities. Exploring case studies of three contemporary 'imaginative texts' from Hungary - Arthur Koestler's Heart of Darkness, Sándor Márai’s Judgement in Canudos (Ítélet Canudosban) and Szindbád Goes Home (Szindbád Hazamegy) – this book demonstrates the power of combining modern scientific method with literary studies using the methodological approach of New Criticism. It further illuminates the linkages between ideology and ideological mentality; the juxtaposition of the mutually exclusive desires for order and beneficial change within every society; the emotional attraction of nostalgic remembering in communities; and the need for more flexible and inclusive uses of language within political dialogue. Equally important: it challenges western audiences to read more non-English (politically informative) literature, all while exploring the power of combining quantitative data with qualitative political analysis. Arguing that there can be no rigid separation of the real and the imaginary within politically active communities, it thus highlights the ability of literature to serve as a restorative, intellectual compass, which hosts the power to bring unexpected consistency to the irrationality of political dialogue and/or foster mutual understanding between estranged groups.

Carol Strong, University of Arkansas