Mapping Greek-Australian Literature: a Reevaluation in the Context of the Literature of the Greek Diaspora

Abstract

This essay attempts (a) to examine the most essential theoretical and practical problems and problematizations which arise in the study of Modern Greek Literature of the Diaspora (MGLD) and (b) to give a concise profile of Greek-Australian Literature.

The essay argues that MGLD has not been researched adequately due to the complex nature of this phenomenon and to the disagreement among scholars on a commonly satisfactory definition of MGLD. As long as such disputes over key terms and concepts (such as “Hellenism”, “Greekness”, “tradition” etc.) continue, a satisfactory definition of MGLD will also continue to be pending.

With regards to Greek-Australian literature, this essay argues that Greek-speaking literature has been one of the most dynamic minority literatures of Australia. However, despite its boom, the cessation of large-scale migration some 20 years ago and the passing away of first generation Greek migrants, Greek-Australian literature has been shrinking continuously. In a few years there may not be many Greek-speaking writers left as the second and third generation Greeks write only in English. However, these English-speaking writers of Greek origin play a leading role in the development of mainstream Australian literature and many of them are in the forefront of the Australian literary scene.

The essay concludes with the observation that these problems and problematizations, as well as the peculiarity of MGLD, constitute an additional, motive for the researcher of this hitherto unexplored field.