Vaderbinding? Moederbinding? Van Wilderode als identificatiefiguur

This article focuses on the teaching practice of the controversial Flemish poet and priest Anton van Wilderode. Widely known for his reactionary and nationalist views, the teacher Van Wilderode stimulated the literary callings of susceptible pupils, some of whom went on to become well-established writers themselves. This in no way implies, however, that they shared his politics and ideology, or his ideas concerning the nature and function of literature. This can be explained in part by a teaching practice respectful of these pupils' individual development, but also by the contexts in which they articulated their identities.