The Philosophical Foundations of Nationalism in the Context of Primordialism and Circumstantialism: A Comparative Analysis of Mirka and An American Rhapsody

Authors : Şenay Eray Sarıtaş
Pages : 92-107
Doi:10.31122/sinefilozofi.1751964
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Publication Date : 2025-10-30
Article Type : Research Paper
Abstract :This study compares the films Mirka and An American Rhapsody through the theories of primordialism and circumstantialism to explore ethnic and national identity. Primordialism views identity as fixed, innate, and rooted in history and culture, while circumstantialism sees identity as flexible, shaped by social and political contexts. Mirka exemplifies the primordialist view, showing identity as deeply connected to heritage and resistant to change despite migration challenges. The protagonist’s Hungarian identity remains stable, reflecting an inherited and unchanging sense of belonging. In contrast, An American Rhapsody illustrates the circumstantialist perspective, portraying identity as fluid and adaptable. Suzy’s experience growing up between Hungarian and American cultures demonstrates how identity can be reconstructed through social interactions and personal choice. The films differ in how they present identity’s flexibility, strategic use, and relationship to migration. While Mirka emphasizes the stability of identity and rejects strategic manipulation of ethnic belonging, An American Rhapsody highlights identity’s adaptability and its negotiation in new social environments. Migration, from a primordialist view, tests the strength of identity but does not change it; from a circumstantialist angle, it offers opportunities for identity’s redefinition. Overall, Mirka and An American Rhapsody represent two contrasting but complementary views on identity: one fixed and rooted, the other dynamic and constructed. Together, they deepen our understanding of ethnic identity as both stable and evolving within historical and social frameworks.
Keywords : İlksellik, Durumsalcılık, Karşılaştırmalı Film Analizi, Mirka, Amerikan Rhapsody

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