From Slavophilia to national idea: the evolution of the worldview of the Ukrainian elite in the 19th century

Abstract

The author of the article researches the consciousness-evolution of Ukrainian elite in the 19th century – from admiration for Slavophilia to the affirmation of the national idea. The main role in this process belongs to Kyїv University (1834) and The Brotherhood of Saints Cyril and Methodius (1845–1847). The Brotherhood was an independent organization of Ukrainian intellectuals that existed in Kyїv and was banned by the authorities of the Russian Empire, its members Mykola Kostomarov, Panteleimon Kulish, Vasyl Bilozerskyi, Mykola Hulak and others were repressed. Kyїv played an important role in the establishment of Ukrainian identity – through an appeal to the medieval past and the common heritage of Slavic civilization. Over time, interest in the ideology of Slavophilia has weakened significantly. The ideology of national sovereignty of Ukrainians comes to the fore. It represents the decisive reforms that had been implemented in 20th century.