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 a long time ago, the first mention of it appeared back in 862, when the city of Polotsk existed, which is considered the oldest settlement. The culture of Belarus has developed over the centuries and intertwined with the most diverse events of that time. Perhaps that is why it is so vibrant and diverse.
The emergence of culture
If we talk about how the culture of the Republic of Belarus appeared and that it was especially influenced, it will be difficult not to note such areas as the Renaissance, Reformation and Enlightenment. The Renaissance period for Belarus was marked by such a vivid representative of this time as Francis Skorin. 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 such concepts as “society” and “man” in as much detail as possible. It was he who created the first printing house in Belarus.
The culture of Belarus of the 18th century was remembered by the period of the Enlightenment, when the elite of European countries prepared for the onset of the “kingdom of reason”. Belarusian literature was actively developing during this period, despite the fact that terrible devastating wars were in full swing. 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 maximized among the population.
Soviet period
In the entire history of its existence, the current lands of Belarus have been included in the most diverse 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. Experts also 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 begin publishing the newspaper Gomon. At the same time, activists achieved the opening of 200 Belarusian schools, which once again confirms the people's desire for development and self-improvement. However, historians believe that during this period statehood sought to hold people together with national self-awareness. The most diverse parties were created and the most active figures were nominated. Especially bright representatives of Soviet modernity such as M. Golodeded and A. Chervyakov were able to express themselves.
Modern culture
During the Soviet period, the culture of Belarus was able to achieve much. For example, linguistic values, originality, as well as the Belarusian ethnic group have risen. But all this quickly fell under the pressure of Stalinist politics. The views of the Bolsheviks almost completely abandoned the process of nationalization, which had just begun its successful restoration in these territories. This time period was remembered by Belarus as the times when there was one ruling and indivisible people. Therefore, talking about the development of culture in this country is quite difficult.
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 Culture Fund was revived. The restoration process has seriously affected all directions, 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 directions 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 of the ideology of this people is collected in a seemingly simple robe. But in fact, in colorful embroideries and spacious outfits lies more than just clothes. The national 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 nations. At the same time, Belarusians have always trembling with what is depicted on the fabric. Each ornament protected or helped in a certain sense to the owner of clothes. Therefore, women have always tried to decorate as much as possible not only their outfits, but also create a kind of amulet on male clothes. You can often find the national costume of Belarus, where there are bright headwear.
Music
It is not at all surprising that today almost all the Days of Belarusian Culture are held brightly and massively. In the cities, national music sounds, and on the streets you can see the most diverse Belarusian costumes. If we talk about what kind of music representatives of this people love, then we can definitely single out ritual songs.
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 sang most often ritual songs: carols, wedding motifs, harvest songs or Pancake week couplets. Amazing melodies of unusual Belarusian instruments can fall in love with you from the first sound, and clockwork motifs and ease of performance make you forever fall in love with the music of this country. However, the lyrics also differ in their ambiguity. Sometimes in the simplest verses there is a deep meaning that conveys certain information that is invisible to outsiders. A huge number of song festivals open in this country every year, where you can not only watch a colorful show, but also listen to national music!
Theatre
Those who have ever visited the Belarusian theater will remember this event forever, because the indicated 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 at all something special and unique that can be found exclusively among this people. As you know, professional theater in the country originates from the time of ancient folk rites. Perhaps that is why it is not like any other theater in the world.
In ancient times, vagrant 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 in the country there are about 28 state theaters that work with a variety of directions. In addition to the dramatic and musical, in Belarus you can also find a puppet theater, which is distinguished by its brightness and unusual productions. But the Bolshoi Opera and Ballet Theater of Belarus is considered the most famous in this country, which is where you need to visit at least once in your life!
Literature and Art
The science and culture of Belarus has always been different from similar trends in other states. Literature can even be called a separate area, because world-famous authors extremely colorfully described events in their works. On the whole, Belarus has a huge number of famous names that even today are of interest to the modern reader. For example, the names of Kotlyarov, Ragutsky, Anoshkin and many others won the hearts of true lovers of bright works. Also in Belarus there are 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, thanks to their work, to the whole world. Most often they depicted national landscapes and the beauty of their native land, but often among the famous artists you can also find the most talented portrait painters.
Cuisine and national dishes of the country
The history of Belarusian culture simply could not do without national dishes. Those who at least once tasted the most delicious beetroot soup will never forget its taste. Many people think that the main dish of Belarusian cuisine is draniki, but this is not so. Of course, in ancient times, the cuisine of the people was distinguished by its simple and affordable, and for cooking dishes used mainly potatoes, which could be easily grown. But today, historians have found that, first of all, the people of Belarus preferred to eat first courses. On the other hand, it is not surprising that meat treats often appeared on the tables of ancient Belarusians. For example, Verashchak, a variety of sausages and meat cooked according to special recipes with herbs and spices. But Belarusian drinks and sweets are most famous. For example, sbiten, kulaga, a soup of beer and crabs. There is even a recipe for special Belarusian fermented bread, which is distinguished not only by high taste, but also by its beneficial properties.
National features
Among the national characteristics of the people of Belarus, one can definitely single out the desire to maintain statehood and development. 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 generally preserve the history of their people. Historians note that it is simply impossible to come up with a national idea, and in order to express it, for centuries people have to not only develop their culture, but also do everything possible to preserve their roots. Belarus is a vivid example of a state that, despite many difficulties, has managed to preserve the most important thing.
The future of Belarusian culture
As you know, Belarusians are a very hospitable and good-natured people. In nature and mentality, they are very similar to their brothers Slavs. It is no secret that today almost all states strive not only to preserve their culture, but also actively help it 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 who create an audience with their works create new artists and writers on the territory of the state. Theaters, museums and galleries are still full of people, which means that people themselves strive for development and honor the history of their land.