THE SAILOR AS A VECTOR OF COSMOPOLITANISM IN WORLD LITERATURE
THE SAILOR AS A VECTOR OF COSMOPOLITANISM IN WORLD LITERATURE

Summary/Abstract: This research paper explores the maritime literary landscape to analyse the sailor’s figure as a vector of cosmopolitanism – an embodiment of global citizenship and cross-cultural encounters. Drawing upon theoretical frameworks from social sciences, philosophy, literary theory, and cultural studies, the article examines the significance of sailors in the context of (post-)colonialism and the global dissemination of culture and literature. Through literary analyses of works belonging to Victor Hugo, Joseph Conrad, Herman Melville, Alexander Kent, Patrick O’Brian, and Álvaro Mutis, the paper highlights the sailor’s role as a bridge between cultures, a witness to global exchanges and a symbol of cosmopolitan values. By synthesising theoretical insights and literary explorations, it sheds light on the enduring relevance of maritime narratives in understanding the complexities of a borderless world.

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