Contemporary French and Scandinavian Crime Fiction: citizenship, gender and ethnicity

This book explores how crime fiction in Denmark, Norway, Sweden, and France has responded to changing social realities and the generic codes and conventions of the crime novel. It investigates the interplay between contemporary Scandinavian and French crime narratives and their engagement with identity issues such as class, gender, sexuality, and ethnicity.

Format: Hardback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 15 June 2021
Publisher: University of Wales Press

This comprehensive book delves into a captivating exploration of Danish, Norwegian, Swedish, and French crime fiction, spanning a fifty-year period from 1965 to the present. During this period, both Scandinavian and French societies have experienced profound transformations, shaping the landscape of these literary genres. Twelve literary case studies are presented, each meticulously examining how crime fictions in these respective contexts have responded to the shifting social realities that have, in turn, contributed to the evolution of the crime novel's generic codes and conventions.

At the heart of this book's analysis lies the intricate negotiation between the French model of Republican universalism and the Scandinavian welfare state, both of which were widely perceived as facing crises at the close of the twentieth century. By adopting a comparative and interdisciplinary approach, the book delves into the intricate interplay between contemporary Scandinavian and French crime narratives, exploring their engagement with the complex relationship between the state and the citizen, particularly in the context of identity issues such as class, gender, sexuality, and ethnicity.

Through a rich tapestry of literary analysis, the book sheds light on the ways in which crime fiction serves as a powerful lens through which to examine the complexities of modern society. It explores the ways in which these narratives challenge traditional notions of justice, morality, and the role of the individual in society. By examining the ways in which crime fictions engage with social, political, and cultural issues, the book provides valuable insights into the evolving dynamics of these societies and the role that literature plays in shaping our understanding of the world.

In conclusion, this book offers a profound and thought-provoking exploration of Danish, Norwegian, Swedish, and French crime fiction, providing a valuable contribution to the field of literary studies. It demonstrates the enduring power of literature to reflect and shape the social and cultural landscapes of our times, and offers a rich and nuanced understanding of the complex interplay between crime fiction, society, and identity.

Weight: 442g
Dimension: 145 x 223 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781786837189