'Urga' - steppe identity

The authoress analyses the film 'Urga' (1991) directed by Nikita Mikhalkov, with a particular focus on how the Mongol culture is portrayed. First, the Mongol mythology and history are considered, and then she describes and analyses each of the scenes of the film, with particular attention being paid to the elements constitutive of Mongol identity. The article finishes with an optimistic diagnosis that the Mongol culture is likely to survive the time of change and unrest, simply because of the fact that adaptation, self sufficiency and lack of attachment to stability all form part of the Mongol culture. This is contrary to the rather pessimistic conclusion of the film itself.