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 quite a long time ago, the first mention of it appears back in 862, when the city of Polotsk existed, which is considered the oldest settlement. The culture of Belarus has developed over many centuries and intertwined with a variety of events of that time. Perhaps that is why it is so bright and varied.
The Emergence of Culture
If we talk about how the culture of the Republic of Belarus appeared, and about what it was especially influenced by, it will be difficult not to mention such areas as the Renaissance, Reformation and Enlightenment. The period of the Renaissance for Belarus was marked by such a prominent representative of this time as Francysk Skaryna. He was not only a well-known printer and humanist, but also tried to convey the values of spirituality to society as much as possible, and also tried to reveal in as much detail as possible such concepts as "society" and"Human". It was he who created the first printing house in Belarus.
The culture of Belarus in the 18th century was remembered by the period of Enlightenment, when the elite of European countries was preparing for the onset of the “kingdom of reason”. During this period, Belarusian literature was actively developing, despite the fact that terrible devastating wars were going on with might and main. According to historians, the most productive period for the development of the culture of Belarus fell on the 17th century, when the level of individual self-awareness of the population grew to the maximum.
Soviet period
During the entire history of its existence, the current lands of Belarus managed to be part of a variety of principalities and possessions. Today, this country is a separate and at the same time completely self-sufficient state. But once, like many other countries, Belarus was considered 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 manifested itself most clearly during the February Revolution in 1917. Also, experts note that this period of time can be safely called the period of Belarusianization.
Even during the German occupation, active figures in this country were able not only to restore the Belarusian Publishing House, but also to start publishing the Gomont newspaper. At the same time, the activists achieved the opening of 200 Belarusian schools, which once again confirms the desire of the people for development and self-improvement. However, historians believe that during this period, statehood sought to hold the people together with the help of national identity. The mostvarious parties and the most active figures were nominated. Such bright representatives of Soviet modernity as M. Goloded and A. Chervyakov were especially able to show themselves.
Modern culture
During the Soviet period, the culture of Belarus was able to achieve a lot. For example, linguistic values, identity, as well as the Belarusian ethnic group have risen. 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 the times 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 took their toll, and Belarus again began to restore its traditions and nationality. A state program for the development of the Belarusian language was adopted, and the Belarusian Cultural Fund was revived. The restoration process 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 originality, but also in the variety of styles, forms and trends in its culture.
National costumes
It is not surprising that historians, studying the peculiarities of the culture of Belarus, especially note the uniqueness of national costumes. Indeed, almost all the ideology of this peoplecollected in a simple, it would seem, attire. But in fact, in colorful embroidered shirts and spacious outfits, there is something more than just clothes. The folk culture of Belarus, as already noted, is intertwined with other countries. So, bright embroideries on simple shirts and flared skirts of the fair sex, which were customary to wear in ancient times, are often found among other peoples. At the same time, Belarusians have always been in awe of what is depicted on the fabric. Each ornament protected or helped the wearer in a certain sense. Therefore, women have always tried to decorate not only their outfits as much as possible, but also create a kind of amulet on male clothes. You can often find the national costume of Belarus, where there are bright hats.
Music
It is not at all surprising that today almost all Days of Belarusian Culture are held brightly and en masse. National music sounds in the cities, and on the streets you can see a wide variety of Belarusian costumes. If we talk about what kind of music representatives of this people love, then ritual songs can definitely be distinguished.
Ever since the time of the Eastern Slavs, the development of music in this country originates. The main instruments that can rightly be called national are the Belarusian cymbal and duda.
In ancient times, the peoples of this state most often performed ritual songs: carols, wedding motifs, harvest songs or Shrovetide verses. Amazing melodies of unusual Belarusian instruments can make you fall in love withyourself from the first sound, and the groovy motives and simplicity of performance make you fall in love with the music of this country forever. However, the lyrics are also notable for their ambiguity. Sometimes in the simplest couplets there is a deep meaning that conveys certain information that is invisible to outsiders. Every year a huge number of song festivals open in this country, 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 always remember this event, because the specified 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 at all, which can only be found among this people. As you know, the professional theater in the country dates back to the time of ancient folk rituals. Perhaps that is why it is unlike any other theater in the world.
In ancient times, wandering musicians, court troupes, and, of course, amateur groups often met on the territory of Belarus. It is no secret that Belarusians are a creative people who always strive for self-development. Today, there are about 28 state theaters operating in the country, which work with a variety of directions. In addition to drama and music in Belarus, you can also meet the puppet theater, which is distinguished by its brightness and unusual performances. But mostfamous 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
Science and culture of Belarus has always been different from similar areas in other states. Literature can be called a separate direction at all, because world-famous authors described events in their works in an extremely colorful way. In general, Belarus has a huge number of famous names that arouse the interest of the modern reader even today. For example, the names of Kotlyarov, Ragutsky, Anoshkin and many others won the hearts of real lovers of bright works. Also in Belarus there is a huge number of scientists who have contributed to the development of world science.
These people are also not deprived of artistic talents. On the account of the Belarusian state there are many artists who were able to become famous all over the world thanks to their works. Most often, they depicted national landscapes and the beauties of their native land, but often among famous artists one can also meet talented portrait painters.
Cuisine and national dishes of the country
The history of the culture of Belarus simply could not do without national dishes. Those who have ever tasted the most delicious beetroot will never forget its taste. Many people think that potato pancakes are the main dish of Belarusian cuisine, but this is not at all the case. Of course, in ancient times, the cuisine of the people was distinguished by its simplicity and accessibility, and for cooking they used mainlypotatoes that could be easily grown. But already today, historians have found out that, first of all, the people of Belarus preferred to eat first courses. On the other hand, there is nothing surprising in the fact that meat delicacies often appeared on the tables of ancient Belarusians. For example, verashchaka, a variety of sausages and meat prepared according to special recipes with the addition of herbs and spices. But Belarusian drinks and sweets are most famous. For example, sbiten, kulaga, beer stew and krambambuli. There is even a recipe for special Belarusian sourdough bread, which is distinguished not only by its high taste, but also by its useful properties.
National peculiarities
Among the national characteristics of the people of Belarus, one can definitely single out the desire to preserve statehood and develop. At all times, the people of this country have sought to preserve the most important thing - their uniqueness and originality.
Despite the fact that wars and revolutions often took place on the territory of this country, people managed to preserve not only the greatest cultural monuments of Belarus, but also, in general, preserve the history of their people. Historians note that a national idea cannot be invented just like that, and in order to express it, peoples have to develop their culture for centuries, but also do everything possible to preserve their roots. Belarus is a vivid example of a state that 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. In character and mindset, they are very similar to their Slavic brothers. It is no secret that today almost all states strive 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 the culture of Belarus are the brightest, because to this day new artists, writers and scientists are creating on the territory of the state, who instantly conquer the audience with their works. As before, theaters, museums and galleries are full of people, which means that people themselves strive for development and honor the history of their region.
