Diameter 65 mm. Mintage 4189 pc. LMD. Шкурко, Салыков# 373. "150 лет со дня рождения Т.Г.Шевченко"
Taras Hryhorovych Shevchenko: The Bard of Ukraine
Taras Hryhorovych Shevchenko, often hailed as the national poet of Ukraine, was born on March 9, 1814, in the village of Moryntsi, then part of the Russian Empire. Known affectionately as Kobzar, a reference to the traditional Ukrainian bard, Shevchenko's life and work encapsulated the spirit of Ukrainian identity, resistance, and cultural revival.
Early Life and Artistic Beginnings
Shevchenko's early life was marked by hardship. Born into serfdom, he was orphaned early and served in various households, including that of his future patron, Vasyl Engelhardt. Engelhardt recognized Shevchenko's talent and facilitated his education, eventually buying his freedom in 1838. This pivotal act allowed Shevchenko to enroll in the Academy of Arts in St. Petersburg, where he thrived as both a poet and a painter.
Literary Contributions
Shevchenko's most famous work, "Kobzar," first published in 1840, is a collection of poetry that remains a cornerstone of Ukrainian literature. His poems, written predominantly in Ukrainian at a time when the language was suppressed, spoke powerfully of freedom, the beauty of the Ukrainian landscape, and the plight of his people under oppression. Works like "Testament" and "Caucasus" are not only literary masterpieces but also calls for national awakening and unity.
Political Activism and Exile
His outspokenness against serfdom and Russian imperialism led to his arrest in 1847. Shevchenko was exiled to a remote part of the Russian Empire, forbidden from writing or painting. Despite these harsh conditions, his spirit was unbroken. His exile ended in 1857, but he continued to face surveillance and censorship.
Legacy
Taras Shevchenko died on March 10, 1861, in St. Petersburg, but his influence only grew posthumously. His burial place in Ukraine became a national shrine, and his works were instrumental during times of political upheaval, including the 20th-century struggles for Ukrainian independence. Shevchenko's legacy extends beyond literature; his art, both in painting and poetry, continues to inspire national pride and cultural identity.
Cultural Impact
Today, Taras Shevchenko is celebrated not only in Ukraine but worldwide among the Ukrainian diaspora. His birthday is marked by Shevchenko's Day, a cultural event that highlights Ukrainian heritage and language. His influence is seen in literature, music, visual arts, and even political movements, making him a timeless figure in the tapestry of Ukrainian culture.
In summary, Taras Shevchenko's life and work are a testament to the enduring power of art in the face of adversity. His contributions to Ukrainian culture and identity have made him an indelible part of the national psyche, a poet whose words continue to resonate with the call for freedom and cultural preservation.