Every year on March 9 and 10, not only in Ukraine, but throughout the world, Shevchenko Days are celebrated - the dates of birth and death of the famous Ukrainian writer, thinker and artist. National hero and symbol of the country. In this regard, we offer you to learn about little-known facts from the life of the writer.
Of all lifetime publications, the Kobzar of 1840 is considered one of the rarest editions. The book was printed on high-quality paper, in clear type, decorated with the image of an old kobzar and a guide boy. The collection was printed in the private publishing house of E. F. Fisher in St. Petersburg in a total of 1000 copies. In 1847, all these books were withdrawn from libraries and bookstores.
The great "Kobzar" was the ideological inspirer of the Cyril and Methodius Brotherhood. Having joined it in 1846, he became its most active figure, spreading revolutionary ideas among the people with his works. By this Shevchenko had a huge impact on all members of the brotherhood. According to Mikhail Drahomanov, Shevchenko stood ahead of his learned friends, the Kievan Slavophiles.
The public figure and educator at his own expense published the Primer, which was intended for teaching children and adults the Ukrainian language in Sunday schools. It was the first 10,000-copy tutorial in the series that Shevchenko wanted to publish. The plans included grammar, geography and arithmetic.
Being a graduate of the St. Petersburg Academy of Arts, he was the author of numerous oil paintings, watercolors, sepia, etchings, and drawings. In his paintings, Shevchenko depicted the reality of that time, often criticizing it. Paintings are dated 1830-1861 - portraits, compositions on mythological, historical and everyday themes, landscapes.
In the history of world culture, the personality of Taras Shevchenko combines a powerful literary talent, brilliant artistry and an unbridled desire to fight for justice.