From Bodily Satiation to Spiritual Fulfillment: On the Kinds and Functions of Anagnorisis in Karen Blixen’s “Babette’s Feast”
Abstract
The article explores the so far overlooked issue of the manifestation of anagnorisis in Karen Blixen’s short story “Babette’s Feast.” An analysis of this literary masterpiece, carried out with a view to bring out the (internal and external) recognitions inherent in its plot, has made it possible to point to three kinds of anagnorisis and to discuss their aims and functions. The particular anagnorises involve (1) the senses, in particular the sense of taste and the memory of taste (as is the case of Löwenhielm), (2) the personal history of the main protagonist Babette Hersant (revealing her identity), and (3) a metaphysical illumination as a result of the participation in the feast and an awakening to a “new life,” experienced by all the protagonists.
