Az idegenség elbeszélésének változatai Kun Árpád Takarító férfi című regényében
Variations on the Narrative of Alienation in Árpád Kun’s Novel Takarító férfi (The Cleaning Man)

Author(s): Dorina Torda
Subject(s): Language and Literature Studies, Studies of Literature
Published by: Scientia Kiadó
Keywords: migration; foreignness; relocation; stereotypes; isolation;
Summary/Abstract: Árpád Kun’s novel The Cleaning Man follows the story of a Hungarian family who relocates to Norway in search of a better life. At the heart of the narrative lies the experience of foreignness and the process of adapting to a new environment, during which the characters are forced to confront not only external cultural differences but also their own internal boundaries and fears. The novel sensitively portrays the process through which the family members – especially the father – strive to construct a new identity within a society governed by a different language and value system. The author vividly illustrates the subtle, often painful moments of experiencing cultural and social differences, which manifest in everyday life, the workplace, and social relationships, as well as within family dynamics. These situations appear not only as challenges but also as opportunities for growth, through which the characters attain a new level of understanding, acceptance, and self-reflection. As the story unfolds, it becomes increasingly clear that the novel’s central figure, the father, is not merely attempting to assimilate externally but is also engaged in an inner struggle with himself. Thus, the narrative is not only the story of a family’s integration, but also an exploration of deeper existential questions: identity, belonging, relationships, and the human place in the world. The novel, therefore, does not depict foreignness merely as an alienating or negative experience, but as a rich source of insight that offers the possibility of self-knowledge and a deeper understanding of others. Facing differences opens up new perspectives and teaches a new kind of empathy.This paper aims to explore how the internal and external conflicts resulting from relocation, the experience of foreignness, and the realities of migration are represented in the novel. Special attention is given to cultural transition, the difficulties of integrating into a new society, and the communication barriers and identity crises that arise from these challenges. Through the analysis of the text, it becomes evident that The Cleaning Man reflects on the theme of foreignness not only through individual destinies but also raises questions that can be interpreted within broader social and existential dimensions.

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