POLISH INFL UENCES IN EVERYDAY CULTURE OF SMALL UKRAINIAN GENTRY OF THE EARLY 20TH CENTURY

Abstract

The article examines Polish infl uences on traditions and everyday culture of small Ukrainian gentry. Aspiration of the Ukrainian gentry to distinguish themselves from the surrounding peasants made them borrow some elements of Polish or urban culture that were perceived as more fashionable and progressive. The article identifi es the most signifi cant alien ethnic elements in their material culture (homebuilding, clothes, food).Some evidence is presented that such infl uences were also present in ceremonial culture, particularly within wedding and funeral rites.