Lesia Ukrainka

Presented by Moroz Yuliia

Early Life and Education
Lesia Ukrainka was born into a highly educated and culturally rich
family. Her father, Mykhailo Petrovych Kosach, was a well-known
writer and painter, and her mother, Olha Drahomanova-Kosach, came
from a family of prominent intellectuals.
Literary Career
Lesia Ukrainka began her literary career at a young age,
writing poetry and prose. She adopted the pseudonym
"Ukrainka" (meaning "a woman from Ukraine") to emphasize
her deep connection to her homeland. Her works addressed
social issues, the struggle for independence, and the role of
women in society.
Activism and Social
Involvement
Lesia Ukrainka was not only a literary
figure but also an active participant in
social and political life. She advocated for
women's rights, education, and social
justice. Her commitment to the Ukrainian
national cause was evident in her
involvement with various cultural and
educational initiatives.
Translator
Lesia Ukrainka's role as a
translator was a significant
aspect of her literary
legacy. While she is
primarily celebrated as a
prominent Ukrainian poet
and playwright, her
contributions to translation
showcase her linguistic
prowess and her dedication
to enriching Ukrainian
literature with global literary
treasures.
 German Greek

Bulgarian Latin

French Russian

Italian Polish

English Ukrainian
Shakespearean
Translations
One of Lesia Ukrainka's notable
achievements as a translator was her
renditions of William Shakespeare's
works into Ukrainian. Her translations of
Shakespearean plays, such as "Hamlet,"
"Othello," and "Romeo and Juliet," were
not mere linguistic exercises. Ukrainka
infused these timeless works with her
own artistic sensibilities, capturing the
nuances of Shakespearean drama while
making them accessible to Ukrainian
audiences.
Lesia Ukrainka's translations extended
beyond English literature. She also translated
works from German, French, and other
languages, acting as a cultural bridge
between Ukraine and the broader literary
world. By introducing Ukrainian readers to the
masterpieces of Goethe, Byron, and other
European authors, she enriched the cultural
landscape and facilitated a cross-cultural
exchange of ideas.
 Ukrainka's translations were not rigid reproductions but
rather creative interpretations. She skillfully adapted foreign
works, preserving their essence while incorporating
elements that resonated with the Ukrainian cultural context.
This approach allowed her to maintain the integrity of the
original texts while ensuring that they spoke directly to
Ukrainian sensibilities.
Lesia Ukrainka's translations were not only about
linguistic fidelity but also about fostering an
appreciation for cultural diversity. Through her work,
she aimed to broaden the horizons of Ukrainian
readers, exposing them to a tapestry of global
literary traditions. This advocacy for cultural
exchange aligns with her broader commitment to
intellectual enrichment and the development of a
well-rounded, cosmopolitan Ukrainian identity.
Thank you