The Invention of Leshy
The Invention of Leshy
StatusVoR
Alternative title
Authors
Majkowski, Tomasz Z.
Kozyra, Magdalena
Prokopek, Aleksandra
Monograph
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Date
2025-12-01
Publisher
Journal title
Games and Culture
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Volume
Pages
Pages
1-26
ISSN
1555-4120
1555-4139
1555-4139
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Access date
2025-12-01
Abstract PL
Abstract EN
The objective of this paper is to examine the role of a digital game series in elevating this relatively minor mythological figure to the status of a synecdoche for the broader concept of “Slavic mythology” and in its appropriation as part of Polish cultural heritage. To this end, this study analyzes Leshy’s position in both Polish and global culture before and after the release of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, with particular attention to how game design has shaped its popular perception. Drawing on Foster and Tolbert’s concept of the folkloresque and Hobsbawm and Ranger’s theory of invented tradition, this study analyzes how CD Projekt Red’s interpretation of the forest spirit has become the dominant global representation, superseding previous fragmented and obscure references to Leshy in popular culture while simultaneously influencing Polish cultural discourse.
Abstract other
Keywords PL
Keywords EN
The Witcher 3
leshy
leshen
folklore
folkloresque
invented tradition
Poland
leshy
leshen
folklore
folkloresque
invented tradition
Poland
Keywords other
Sustainable Development Goals
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