1 Short courses in History in Estonia

Tales, Legends, and Demons in Contemporary Culture and Ukrainian Folklore

Mare’s Head, vampire-witches, scary saints, and children appearing as flickering lights – what do they all have in common? Did giants ever inhabit the Ukrainian landscape, and why do Ukrainian mermaids not have tails, but witches do? These questions point to a complex, non-linear tradition of meaning-making of the uncanny and the supernatural, reflected in beliefs and narrative genres of Ukrainian folklore.During the course, students will explore the uncanny creatures, beliefs, and rituals, the way they were believed and practised. Interactive classes will provide key analytical tools and practical materials to explore various approaches to interpreting the supernatural beliefs and encounters, as well as examining their role in contemporary culture.