Constructing Resistance: A Discourse-Historical Analysis of Sollen wir Magyaren werden? (1833)

This study examines the publication Sollen wir Magyaren werden? (‘Should We Become Magyars?’), a series of letters written in response to the Magyarization policies in 19th-century Hungary. The aim of the research is to analyze how the text constructs a counter-discourse against the forced assimilation of non-Magyar populations, advocating for linguistic and cultural diversity within the Habsburg Monarchy. The study employs the Discourse-Historical Approach (DHA), a method within Critical Discourse Analysis, to explore the text’s argumentative strategies, rhetorical devices, and historical references. The theoretical framework emphasizes the interplay between discourse, power, and identity, situating the text within the broader socio-political context of resistance to Magyar nationalism. The methodology involves a detailed analysis of the text’s historical context, genre, and structure, focusing on its persuasive and argumentative style, and the use of symbols, metaphors and intertextuality, e.g., historical, literary and philosophical references. The results reveal that Sollen wir Magyaren werden? deconstructs the dominant discourse of Magyarization, while advocating for the rights of non-Magyar communities living in the Kingdom of Hungary. The text challenges the legitimacy of Magyarization by exposing its ideological flaws and harmful consequences and emphasizes Hungary’s multiethnic heritage. It argues that linguistic and cultural diversity are essential for national unity and progress and warns of the negative impact of coercive assimilation policies on non-Magyar identities. The study concludes that the text remains relevant as a reminder of the dangers of forced assimilation and the importance of protecting minority rights. It also opens avenues for further research into the broader interdiscursive network of texts and discourses emerging from the socio-political context of 19th-century Central Europe.