Gavadzyn V. The spring calendar ceremonies and customs of the Hutsuls of the 20th century.

In the thesis the spring ceremonies and customs of the Hutsuls of the 20th century are researched. Main attention is paid to the ascertainment of theirs primary essence, content, functions and significance in modern times. The great importance of materials of the field ethnographic researches is analyzed. It results in the introduction to the scientific circulation of the new facts concerning the peculiarities of the Hutsuls' ceremonialism. The system of modern methods of research of calendar ceremonies and customs is described. The position of the Carpathians in creation of the ethnic regional peculiarity of Hutsulshchyna's spring ceremonies and customs is observed. The very factor determines the preservation of numerous relicts of ancient cults in folk ritualism. And also the shepherd's culture has a strong influence on the basic forms of the Hutsuls's ritualism.The spring period of calendar is examined as an integral structure that embraces the three periods: early spring, Easter cycle and late spring. Each has its features. The ritualism of early spring shows a manifestation of the tradition of celebration of spring New Year and the theme of calendar chaos and the intensification of demonic creatures respectively. The Easter ritualism includes the cult of earth, plant and ancestors under influence of the spring regeneration of nature. The ritualism of late spring demonstrates the manifestation of the cult of home animals and leaving for the mountain valley as an important holiday in social and ritualistic context.