The Imitation Game: Russian Pseudonyms and Pseudo-Translations in Dutch Literature

Abstract

Pseudo-translations are a recurring phenomenon within literary history. This article examines three Dutch authors who, towards the late nineteenth and early twentieth century, opted for a Russian pseudonym. Using Jérôme Meizoz’ notion of posture, this article charts the trajectory of these literary scams and explores the rules of this imitation game through contextual, paratextual and textual evidence while also looking on the impact of these mystifications on the career of the respective authors. Finally, the works of the three fake Russians and their reception can also shed light on the place and prestige Russian literature held in the literary field of the Netherlands during a period in which Russian literature was less accessible than today.