Yuriy Fedkovych as a full member of the South-Western Division of the Geographic Society

Abstract

The article is dedicated to Y. Fedkovych as a full member of the South-Western Division of the Russian Imperial Geographic Society (1873–1876). It outlines the directions of work of this influential scientific association, which conducted, among other things, ethnographic studies regarding the study of all of Ukraine in the relevant aspect. The efforts of M. Dragomanov, an authoritative member of the Division, aimed at involving Y. Fedkovych in studies of Bukovinian Hutsulia are indicated. Starting this activity, the writer realized himself in various related forms, including purely literary ones, with colorful folklore and ethnographic content, and special research in folklore and ethnography (about customs and beliefs, calendar rituals of his fellow countrymen, etc.). It is noted that Y. Fedkovych's membership in the South-Western Division of the Geographic Society was essentially the first official recognition of his personal contributions to the field of science. Keywords: Y. Fedkovych, South-Western Division of the Russian Imperial Geographic Society, M. Dragomanov and Bukovina, ethnography of Bukovina, Bukovinian Hutsulia.