Lesya Ukrainka’s Philosophical and Pedagogical Reflections

The scientific novelty of this research lies in the analysis of the evolution of of the prominent Ukrainian poetess Lesya Ukrainka’s philosophical and pedagogical opinions, which reflect the change in her worldview as well as moral and spiritual ideals: from a nationally focused to a universal vision, from philanthropic motives to a modernist understanding of reality; and the actualisation of the presented ideas in the context of modern educational challenges. The authors’ scientific research allows stating that her works are dominated by and affirm human dreams about the need for the unity of the beauty of nature and humanity, as well as the harmonization of human relations based on spirituality and freedom. The author of a large number of poetic and prose works is characterized by non-classical thinking in analysing the existence of her native people, a historical and philosophical awareness of their place and role in the universal context. In this sense, Lesya Ukrainka’s reflections acquire a high humanistic meaning, they are shrouded in romanticism, and to a large extent, figurative myth-making. This is especially evident in the dramatic work “Forest Song” and many others. The article also analyses the social and state ideas of the thinker, who argues that national and social liberation is possible only under conditions of decisive actions of the most conscious strata of the people. The author proves that the path of freedom and independence is a very difficult, controversial, and long-term process, but it leads to the establishment of independence, identity, and statehood. Lesya Ukrainka’s philosophical meanings are characterised by spiritual, moral, and aesthetic contexts. It is worth noting that these contexts are primarily embodied in the native word, which the poetess calls ‘fiery’, because it ignites goodness, beauty, and truth in people who are pure in spirit and capable of radiating this light. Lesya Ukrainka’s cultural, educational, scientific and pedagogical reflections are both didactic and educational in nature, based on the ‘philosophy of the heart’, which was founded by the brilliant Ukrainian philosopher and educator Hryhorii Skovoroda. Thus, Lesya Ukrainka’s legacy is of scientific and cultural significance, shaping the philosophical and pedagogical tradition of Ukraine.