Integration, Subversion, and the Rape of Europa: Heinrich Böll's "Er kam als Biefrahrer."

Böll, Heinrich, 1917-1985; Europa (Greek mythology); Greek mythology; Cultural identity; Study & teaching of nationalism; Social conditions in Europe; 20th century European history

This essay explores the Greek myth of Europa and the thematic implications on cultural identity. The author relates the prominent idea of sacrificing mortality in body and finite geography with the immortality of legend and cultural heritage through the retelling of the myth by German author Heinrich Böll. It is suggested that in post-World War II Europe, the individuality of nationalism must die and be subsumed into a broader European identity.