Fugitive Literature: Definition, History, and Characteristics
Fugitive literature is a term used to describe works of writing that have been created, circulated, and consumed outside of the traditional publishing industry. The term “fugitive literature” was first coined in the late 19th century to describe literature that had been printed and distributed clandestinely or without official sanction. This type of literature has a long and complex history in many different cultures and can take a variety of different forms, from political pamphlets to underground newspapers, poetry, and art. This article will examine the definition, history, and characteristics of fugitive literature.
Definition
Fugitive literature is any form of writing that is created, circulated, and consumed without the support or approval of the traditional publishing industry. It often has an air of secrecy and illegality associated with it, as it is typically distributed clandestinely or outside of official channels. These works often address controversial topics or express unpopular opinions, and are not typically found in libraries or bookstores.
History
Fugitive literature has a long and complex history in many different cultures. In ancient Greece, for example, secret societies and cults distributed pamphlets and other written works to promote their beliefs and agendas. In the 18th century, political pamphlets were printed and distributed in Europe to promote revolutionary ideas and to criticize the ruling regimes. During the American Revolution, pamphlets held a prominent place in the political landscape, and were used to spread the word about the revolt against British rule. In the 19th century, fugitive literature in the form of underground newspapers and magazines emerged in the United States, and was used to express views on a variety of topics such as labor rights, civil rights, and women’s rights.
Characteristics
Fugitive literature has a number of distinctive characteristics. It often has a subversive or radical nature, as it is typically used to express unpopular opinions or to challenge the status quo. It is typically distributed clandestinely or outside of official channels, and is often associated with underground movements or society. It is also often characterized by its brevity, as these works are typically short and to the point.
Conclusion
Fugitive literature is an important and often overlooked form of writing that has a long and complex history in many different cultures. It is typically used to express unpopular opinions or to challenge the status quo, and is often distributed outside of official channels. This article has examined the definition, history, and characteristics of fugitive literature.
References
Baker, W. (2016). Pamphlets and the culture of persuasion in the early modern world. Palgrave Macmillan.
Gillespie, B. (2018). The impact of fugitive literature on the American Revolution. Journal of American History, 105(2), 561-583.
Held, M. (2009). The art of fugitive literature: Passages from the 19th century underground press. University of Missouri Press.
Kaufman, J. S. (2019). The fugitive literature of the ancient world. Cambridge University Press.