Poet and scientist Nikolai Kostomarov: the problem of identity

Abstract

It is extremely difficult to explore creative products outside of social and biographical contexts. This is especially important in the case when the literary and national processes form a single whole - as was the case in Ukraine in the 19th century. The famous writer, historian and public figure Nikolai Kostomarov played a significant role in the development of that multifaceted - literary and at the same time national - process. And today his personality is of considerable scientific interest - primarily as a certain type of Ukrainian intellectual who has gone through a difficult path of national self-knowledge. His individual experience of comprehending personal and national identity still has great cognitive value. The history of the acquisition of identity is presented primarily in the writer's autobiography, although it has not escaped the tangible influence of the author's (conscious or unconscious) retrospective correction. The materials of the autobiography are supplemented by memoirs of third parties, which, at least in key episodes, are often based on the testimonies of the same Kostomarov. Biographers have introduced into the interpretation of the facts a lot that was inspired by the stereotypes of romanticism. Selected biographical episodes are presented in the aspect of the search for individual freedom. The factor of fantasizing is also highlighted, in particular regarding the nature of the creative and scientific practices of the poet and historian, providing for a psychological "immersion" in another environment or era. In a sense, the continuation of historical reconstructions and psychological practices of "immersion" in the studied environment was Kostomarov's study of the Ukrainian language, and his recording of folk songs, and further author's rethinking of folklore motives. All together significantly influenced his self-awareness and, over time, determined the adoption of the Ukrainian national identity.