Folk culture of Belarus. History and development of culture in Belarus

Talking about the history and development of the culture of Belarus is the same as trying to tell a long and fascinating story. In fact, this state appeared long ago, the first mention of it appeared in 862, when there was the city of Polotsk, which is considered the oldest inhabited place. The culture of Belarus developed over many centuries and was intertwined with various events of that time. Perhaps, that is why it is so bright and diverse.

The emergence of culture

If we talk about how the culture of the Republic of Belarus appeared, and what was particularly affected by it, then it would be difficult not to mention such areas as the Renaissance, the Reformation and the Enlightenment. The Renaissance period for Belarus was marked by such a bright representative of this time as Francis Skaryna. He was not only a well-known printer and humanist, but also tried to maximize the value of spirituality to society, and also tried to expand as much as possible the concepts such as "society" and "man." It was he who created the first printing house in Belarus.

The culture of Belarus of the 18th century was remembered by the Enlightenment period, when the elite of European countries were preparing for the offensive of the "kingdom of reason". During this period, Belarusian literature is actively developing, despite the fact that terrible ruinous wars are going on. According to historians, the most productive period for the development of the culture of Belarus came in the 17th century, when the level of individual self-awareness increased as much as possible.

The Soviet period

For the whole history of its existence, the present Belarusian lands have managed to visit many different principalities and possessions. To date, this country is a separate and at the same time quite self-sufficient state. But sometime, like many other countries, Belarus was considered a part of the BSSR and the USSR. During this period the development of culture in Belarus was especially bright and unusual. According to experts, the culture of this state was most vividly manifested during the February revolution in 1917. Also, specialists note that this period of time can be safely called the period of Belarusianization.

Even in the days of the German occupation, active figures in this country were able not only to restore the "Belarusian publishing house", but also to launch the release of the newspaper Gomon. At the same time, activists achieved the opening of 200 Belarusian schools, which once again confirms the people's aspiration for development and self-improvement. However, historians believe that during this period statehood sought to consolidate the people with the help of national self-consciousness. A variety of parties were created and the most active figures were nominated. Especially themselves such bright representatives of the Soviet modernity, as M.Goloded and A.Chervyakov could show.

Modern culture

During the Soviet period, the culture of Belarus was able to achieve much. For example, language values, originality, and also the Belarusian ethnos rose. But all this quickly fell under the pressure of Stalin's policy. The views of the Bolsheviks almost completely abandoned the process of nationalization, which had just begun its successful restoration in these territories. This period of time was remembered by Belarus as a time in which there was one ruling and indivisible people. Therefore, it is quite difficult to talk about the development of culture in this country.

However, by 1991 the situation had completely changed, the change of power and order had taken its toll, and Belarus again began to restore its traditions and nationality. The state program for the development of the Belarusian language was adopted, and the Belarusian Cultural Foundation was revived. The restoration process has seriously affected all areas, but it is especially noticeable in the literary works of that time. Today, Belarus differs from other countries not only in its identity, but in the variety of styles, forms and directions in its culture.

National costumes

It is not surprising that historians, studying the peculiarities of Belarusian culture, especially note the uniqueness of national costumes. Indeed, almost all the ideology of this people is gathered in a simple, seemingly apparel. But in fact in colorful embroideries and spacious outfits lies more than just clothes. The national culture of Belarus, as already noted, is intertwined and other countries. So, bright embroideries on simple shirts and cleated skirts of the fair sex, which were taken to wear in ancient times, are often found in other peoples. At the same time, the Belarusians always with trembling relate to what is depicted on the fabric. Each ornament was guarded or helped in a certain sense to the wearer. Therefore, women have always tried to decorate as much as possible not only their outfits, but also to create a kind of amulet on the clothes of the male. It is often possible to meet the national costume of Belarus, where there are bright headdresses.

Music

It is not surprising that today almost all Days of Belarusian Culture are held brightly and massively. In the cities, national music sounds, and on the streets you can see a wide variety of Belarusian costumes. If we talk about what kind of music the representatives of this people like, then we can definitely sing out ritual songs.

Ever since the time of the Eastern Slavs , the development of music in this country has begun. The main instruments that can rightfully be called national ones are Belarusian cymbala and duda.

In ancient times, the people of this state performed mostly ritual songs: carols, wedding motifs, reaping songs or Maslenitsa couplets. Amazing melodies of unusual Belarusian instruments can fall in love with the first sound, and the motifs and simplicity of performance make you love the music of this country forever. However, the lyrics also differ in their ambiguity. Sometimes in the simplest couplets there is a deep meaning that conveys certain information that is not visible to outsiders. Annually in this country a huge number of song festivals opens, where you can not only watch a colorful show, but also listen to national music!

Theater

Those who have ever visited the Belarusian theater will forever remember this event, because this direction of art in the state is especially different from what can be seen in other countries. The culture of Belarus has always stood out for its brightness and unusualness, but the theater is something special and unique that can be found only in this people. As you know, the professional theater in the country dates back to the time of the ancient people's rites. Perhaps that's why he does not look like any other theater in the world.

In ancient times, wandering musicians, and court troupes, and, of course, amateur groups were often found on the territory of Belarus. It's no secret that the Belarusians are a creative people who always strive for self-development. To date, there are about 28 state theaters operating in the country that work with a wide variety of activities. In addition to the dramatic and musical in Belarus, one can also find a puppet theater, which is distinguished by its brightness and unusual performances. But the most famous in this country is the Bolshoi Opera and Ballet Theater of Belarus, that's where you need to visit at least once in your life!

Literature and art

The science and culture of Belarus has always differed from similar directions in other states. Literature and at all can be called a separate direction, because world-famous authors described the events in their works in a very colorful manner. In general, Belarus has a large number of famous names, which even today are of interest to the modern reader. For example, the names of Kotlyarov, Ragutsky, Anoshkin and many others conquered the hearts of true lovers of vivid works. Also in Belarus there is a huge number of scientists who contributed to the development of world science.

Artistic talents, this people are also not deprived. On the account of the Belarusian state there are many artists who were able to become famous, thanks to their works, to the whole world. Most often they depicted the national landscapes and the beauty of their native land, but quite often among the famous artists you can meet talented portraitists.

Kitchen and national dishes of the country

The history of Belarusian culture simply could not do without national dishes. Those who have at least once tried delicious beetroot, will never forget his taste. Many believe that the main dish of Belarusian cuisine is draniki, but this is not so. Of course, in ancient times, the cuisine of the people differed in its simple and accessible, and for the preparation of dishes, mainly potatoes, which could be easily grown, were used. But already today historians have found out that first of all the people of Belarus preferred to eat the first dishes. On the other hand, there is nothing surprising in that often on the tables of ancient Belarusians appeared meat delicacies. For example, verashchaka, a variety of sausages and meat, cooked according to special recipes with the addition of herbs and spices. But most of all are famous for Belarusian drinks and sweets. For example, sbiten, a cup of tea, a soup of beer and krambambuli. There is even a recipe for special Belarusian loaf, which is not only distinguished by its high taste qualities, but also useful properties.

National Features

Among the national peculiarities of the people of Belarus there is definitely a desire to preserve statehood and development. At all times, the people of this country sought to preserve the most important thing - their uniqueness and originality.

Despite the fact that war and revolution often took place on the territory of this country, people managed to preserve not only the greatest cultural monuments of Belarus, but also preserve the history of their people as a whole. Historians point out that the national idea can not be invented just like that, and in order to express it, the peoples have for centuries not only developed their culture, but also do everything possible to preserve their roots. Belarus is a vivid example of the state, which managed, despite many difficulties, to preserve the most important thing.

The future of Belarusian culture

As you know, Belarusians are very hospitable and good-natured people. By character and mentality, they are very similar to their Slav brothers. It's no secret that today almost all states aspire not only to preserve their culture, but also actively help it to recover. The culture of Belarus has been preserved for centuries, and today the most important thing for the country is to continue to actively protect and love its history.

However, the forecasts for Belarusian culture are the brightest, because to this day new artists, writers and scientists are creating in the territory of the state, which instantly win their audience by their works. Still theaters, museums and galleries are full of people, which means that the people themselves are eager to develop and honor the history of their land.