Self-identification of the Ukrainians through pining for their native land (on the material of folk art)

Abstract

The scientific novelty of this study is determined by the acute topicality of the studies concerning self-identification of the Ukrainians. Leaving the native land allows a person to better understand his/her inner self. In the creative heritage of Ukraine, there are many mentionings of the types of separation from the native land and the reflection of personal attitude to it. Manifestations of this cultural phenomenon in different types of literary creativity are given close attention. The causes that add to the pining for the native land are classified, and their reflection in the literary heritage of the Ukrainian people is revealed. It is emphasized that for Ukraine, more often than for other states, this issue has repeatedly become relevant at different times. A new type of separation from the native land has been identified: the forced loss of the native language on one’s own land. It is emphasized that some songs contain direct instructions to the listener on the principles of maintaining national identity. For example, the found version of the song “The falcon and eagle became friends” contains a new stanza with the request: “Teach my children / In a foreign land / not to seek for happiness”. In the context of modern Ukrainian cultural background pining for the native land becomes topical, and the concept of “evshan-potion” is deemed really important. In general, this work shows that the cultural identity of Ukrainians has historical evidence, which is enshrined in folk songs and literary heritage. These results allow us to clarify the foundations of the cultural identity of the Ukrainians.