Evolution of the female character in the prose of Hanna Barvinok and Olha Kobylianska (based on Hanna Barvinok’s short story «Prapravnuchka baby Bortsia» аnd Olha Kobylianska’s shortstory "Nekulturna")

Abstract

This article presents a comparative analysis of Hanna Barvinok’s short story «Prapravnuchka Baby Bortsia» and Olha Kobylianska’s short story «Nekulturna». The focus is on the figurative depiction of the world, the mental strength, and the resilience of the female spirit capable of resistance and confrontation in complex human and interpersonal relationships. The heroines in these works are characterized by intelligence, integrity, high standards for themselves and the world, and a focus on social and spiritual issues. They live by moral principles and a high cordocentric culture, leaving no room for hatred.

The article highlights how origin shapes the women’s attitudes toward the world and their environment. In Hanna Barvinok’s story, the Marusia Horbonosykha knows her family history, which helps her accept her defeats and life’s challenges. Her mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother were honest and decent women who knew their worth and knew how to obey their husbands. Marusia has learned well from the past, preparing 

her for any challenge and teaching her that one must fight for their place in the world without breaking their spirit.

In Olha Kobylianska’s «Nekulturna», Paraska’s life is marked by numerous trials. The story contrasts male and female power, highlighting Paraska’s superiority as she easily performs hard labor, covers long distances, and remains emotionally balanced during confrontations. Despite attempts by men to exploit and physically harm her, Paraska’s harmonious inner world remains intact. She prefers solitude but retains her inner attractiveness and friendliness to those who understand her heart.

The key to understanding the heroines in Hanna Barvinok and Olha Kobylianska’s works is their inner worlds, which remain unchanged despite various life challenges. They are aristocrats of the spirit, unyielding to life’s circumstances.