INTERPRETATION OF THE MYTH OF THE CULTURAL HERO IN THE WORK OF A. DE SAINT-EXUPERY

Abstract

The article explores how Antoine de Saint-Exupery, the famous French writer and aviator, reinterprets the myth of the cultural hero in his famous work “The Little Prince”. The author analyzes how the image of the child hero, innocent and pure of heart, differs from the traditional archetypes of the powerful warrior or god. The article also examines how the Little Prince's journey through the planets of human souls turns into a metaphor for the search for the meaning of life and love. The author emphasizes how the “Little Prince” in the context of the 20th century becomes a symbol of hope for peace and spiritual awakening of mankind. Saint-Exupéry's masterpiece, The Little Prince, stands as a profound reinterpretation of the cultural hero myth in a modern world. The story champions the power of innocence, the importance of pursuing inner truth, and the ability of a pure heart to change the world. It embodies a timeless message that continues to inspire readers of all ages to embrace the beauty of life and believe in the potential for good within ourselves and others. The Little Prince transcends being merely a book. It embodies a powerful cultural symbol resonating with people across generations. It teaches us to value simple yet crucial things: love, friendship, beauty, and faith in humanity's inherent goodness.