THE TOPICS OF SHCHEDRIVKA-SONGS IN WESTERN PODILLYA AND THEIR MAIN MOTIFS

The article studies shchedrivka-songs (Epiphany carols/shchedrivkas) of Western Podillya (Ukraine’s ethno-geographic region) regarding their thematic groups and typical motifs. Shchedrivka-songs are defined as musical and poetic works that accompany the rite of the third Christmas holiday, Epiphany, and are an integral part of this holiday. Special attention is drawn to the fact that the plot of Epiphany carols is based on the initial magic, as a mandatory producer of magic during the next calendar year. Dominant motifs in the plot of Epiphany carols in Western Podillya are the motifs of glorification of the main celestial bodies – the sun, moon, stars and terrestrial representatives of the family, i.e. the master, mistress and their children. Motifs of chivalry, youth’s work, choosing a match for marriage, honouring parents are often included in shchedrivka-songs. Epiphany carols in which the characters of the Lord’s Son, His Mother and saints play an important role.