Mazepa Patronage in Cultural and Spiritual Spheres

Abstract

Purpose of Article. The purposes of the article are to analyse of cultural, educational and philanthropic activities of Ivan Mazepa; to highlight its main areas, trends and forms; to determine the contribution of the great hetman the development of Ukrainian culture. Methodology. Methodological principles, used by the author in the study of the abovementioned topic, are historicism and objectivity with regard to specific historical factors that influenced the activities of Ivan Mazepa in the context of the situation of the Hetman State in late XVII – early XVIII centuries. Scientific novelty. In this paper, the author pays attention to the factors that stimulated Hetman Ivan Mazepa to active cultural, educational and charitable activities. In addition, the author demonstrates factual level, scope, trends and features of Ivan Mazepa’s patronage in cultural and spiritual sphere and defines the specific contribution of Ivan Mazepa in cultural and spiritual heritage of Ukraine. Conclusions. During the reign of Ivan Mazepa, the fundamental changes, dealt with the authority cultural policy happened. The hetman launched a large-scale program of revival of spiritual monuments, abandoned monastic institutions, construction of cathedrals, churches, educational institutions. These issues were the focus of Hetman's government. Mazepa implemented these measures as a political leader. It was his public policy.