Ukrainian Literature (11th Grade)

Prose

Ivan Nechuy-Levitsky: Kaydasheva Simya (The Kaydash Family)

Kaydasheva Simya portrays the daily life of a peasant family, exploring the struggles over material possessions and their impact on relationships. The story examines the social problems of the time and the complexities of family dynamics.

Panas Myrny: Khiba revut voly, yak yasla povni? (Do Oxen Low When Mangers are Full?)

This socio-psychological novel chronicles a village's history, spanning from the liquidation of the Zaporozhian Sich to the emancipation reform of 1861. The novel explores themes of social injustice, resistance, and the human condition.

Mykhailo Kotsyubinsky: Intermezzo, Tini zabutykh predkiv (Shadows of Forgotten Ancestors)

Kotsyubinsky's works mark a shift towards modernism in Ukrainian prose. Intermezzo, a psychological novella, explores themes of spiritual balance and the creative process. Shadows of Forgotten Ancestors delves into the tragic love story of Ivan and Marichka, set against the backdrop of Hutsul folklore and traditions.

Mykola Khvylovy: Ya (Romantyka) (I (Romance))

This novella explores the disillusionment with the revolution and the internal conflict between humanism and revolutionary ideology. The protagonist grapples with questions of morality and personal freedom in a turbulent political landscape.

Valerian Pidmohylny: Misto (The City)

Misto follows the journey of Stepan Radchenko, a Ukrainian intellectual from a peasant background, as he navigates the challenges of urban life and seeks self-discovery. The novel examines themes of ambition, social mobility, and moral conflicts.

Ostap Vyshnya: Moya avtobiografia (My Autobiography), Pysmennyky (Writers), Som (Catfish)

Known for his humorous short stories ("smiles"), Ostap Vyshnya satirizes the social and literary scene of his time. His works are characterized by wit, optimism, and a love for nature and humanity.

Drama

Ivan Karpenko-Kary: Martyn Borulya

This satirical comedy explores the theme of social climbing and the clash between traditional values and aspirations for a higher social status. The play examines the complexities of Ukrainian identity and the challenges of societal transformation.

Mykola Kulish: Myna Mazaylo

Myna Mazaylo satirizes the issue of national identity and the challenges of Ukrainianization in the 1920s. The play uses humor to critique those who reject their Ukrainian heritage and embrace Russian culture.

Poetry

Ivan Franko: Moses, Ziv’yale lystia (Withered Leaves), Hymn (Zamist prologa)

Franko's poetry explores themes of national identity, social justice, and the human condition. Moses is a powerful allegory for the Ukrainian struggle for freedom and self-determination.

Lesya Ukrainka: Lisova pisnya (The Forest Song), Contra spem spero!, Slovo, chomu ty ne tverdaya krytsya…

Ukrainka's works are characterized by neo-romanticism and symbolism. The Forest Song is a dramatic fairy tale that explores the conflict between nature and civilization, love and duty. Her poetry often reflects on themes of personal strength, resilience, and the power of dreams.

This outline provides a starting point for exploring the rich and complex world of Ukrainian literature. Further research and analysis of individual works will enhance understanding and appreciation of these important authors and their contributions to Ukrainian literary history.