Historical Metafiction: Elena Ferrante’s Neapolitan Novels as a Postmodern Rethinking of History
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Abstract
The Neapolitan Novels (2011–14), translated into English by Ann Goldstein, are a prime example of postmodern literature, distinguished by Elena Greco’s unique style of narration, structurally and ideologically. Elena Ferrante utilizes multiple narrative techniques, including unreliable narration, self‐reflexivity, and paradoxes, to challenge existing literary and historical narratives’ rigidity and present various possible ways of retelling history within the text. This study draws on Linda Hutcheon’s postmodern theories of history and historical metafiction to examine the representation of history in the Neapolitan Novels. Specifically, it analyzes the novels’ metatextual, intertextual, and metanarrative aspects, exploring how they challenge traditional historical narratives and present alternative perspectives on the past. By providing insights into the representation of history in postmodern literature, this study contributes to the broader discourse on the relationship between history and fiction in contemporary literature.