Role and archetype in the theatrical fairy tale by Vasily Shukshin

The paper presents a thorough examination of the character structure in the theatrical fairy tale created by Vasily Shukshin. The analysis of the theatrical characters results in an attempt to substantiate a specific approach to the artistic comprehension and visual content of the the-atrical character. This approach is based on the canonical system of roles and the invariants of the archetype. The early stage of the writer’s creativity is characterized by the search for artistic identity, with the focus on developing the character, bringing the hero and the creator closer. However, in the later period, Shukshin takes a different approach by distancing himself from the hero. The rejection of literary characters in favor of roles in “Point of view” marks an exit from the zone of social conflicts into the space of aesthetic issues. Contrasting accents in identical roles are used to counterpoint the neutral position of the author, instantly discoloring and devaluing the plot. This strategy emphasizes the interest in exploring the subjective/objective nature of an artistic image and the essence of character. The next step taken in “Before the third cocks” is to transform and rethink the character plan. Instead of being simplified, the characters are condensed to an archetype. This allows the artist to make anthropological generalizations, placing a Person in the center of philosophical and aesthetic discourse, surpassing the limitations of eccentric and “unsolved” individuals.