A review by olya_hakob
Jelaleddin (Armenian Edition) by Raffi (Hakob Melik Hakobian)

The central theme of the book is the continuous struggle of Armenians against Turkish rule and Kurdish looting and the frustration from the inability of the nation to organize and defend itself. Another common dilemma in Raffi's work is also reflected here: the choice between personal happiness and societal good and as usual for his heroes, it is solved in favor of perceived societal good. These questions seem relevant for the Armenian reality even now, however, Raffi's romanticized views should definitely be taken with a grain of salt both in terms of the historical context and the current reality. For instance, although the protagonists of this novel want to help the villagers, their actions seem more like an adventure than a clear plan. What would happen after the success of one adventure? How exactly would the security of the Armenian villagers be guaranteed in face of pending revenge? I do, however, agree with the basic notion that victim mentality is not helpful and action is needed to guarantee the survival of a small nation in face of adversity.