THE MYTHOLOGICAL ACPECT OF V. DROZD’S EPIC NOVEL “LEAVES OF THE EARTH”: PEDAGOGICAL APPROACHES TO TEACHING UKRAINIAN LITERATURE

Abstract

Summary. Introduction. Volodymyr Drozd's epic novel, "Leaves of the Earth" is a landmark phenomenon in Ukrainian literature, being an artistically rich and original work about the inhabitants of the Chernihiv region. It is appropriate to use it in extracurricular reading lessons or in courses of local literature. However, recommendations for school-level study of this work have not been proposed yet. This encourages the search for educational approaches that will facilitate the study of V. Drozd’s works in literature classes at the senior secondary school level.

The aim of the article is to outline ways of studying the novel in regional literature classes through the application of mythological analysis.

Methodology. The article employs analytical and synthetic methods of studying a literary work, including the analysis of plot episodes, expressive reading, and the examination of quotations and textual excerpts. In addition, research-based and inquiry-oriented activities are used, such as citation, heuristic discussion, and mythological analysis.

Results. The analysis of V. Drozd’s epic novel Leaves of the Earth is proposed to conduct through the lens of its mythological dimension, which represents a significant facet of the author’s artistic style.  Textual analysis demonstrates that mythologism occupies one of the key positions in structuring the literary and serves to convey the author’s principal ideas. The focus of the study is the mythological dimension of the novel, which permeates all levels of artistic structure: worldview, chronotope, plot and composition, imagery, symbolism, language, and philosophical content. The observations presented are illustrated with extensive textual evidence and are further supported by the assessments of literary scholars.

Scientific novelty. The development of specific methodological recommendations has contributed to the formation of an approach that addresses the issue of studying Volodymyr Drozd’s novel Leaves of the Earth in regional Ukrainian literature classes for grades 10–11.

Conclusions. While studying V. Drozd’s novel Leaves of the Earth, students should be guided toward uncovering the mythological content of the work and interpreting the main mythologemes that permeate different levels of the literary text. Group work, textual research, research-based project activities, and heuristic discussions are all productive approaches.  Such an approach promotes deeper understanding of the novel’s philosophical and thematic content, particularly regarding love for the native land, intergenerational connections, urbanization, and the search for identity. Studying the mythological dimension of the novel enables senior students not only to grasp the artistic uniqueness of V. Drozd’s work but also to reflect on their own connection to the history and culture of their homeland.