Shevchenko Days: an open lesson at the Lesia Ukrainka Ukrainian School Abroad, Naples

“FIGHT ON AND YOU WILL WIN!” A line from a poem by Taras Hryhorovych Shevchenko that lifts the spirit and rouses the will to fight.

Today Taras Shevchenko remains one of the greatest Ukrainian poets and painters. His work and his contribution to Ukrainian culture are undying.

Shevchenko is known for his poetry, which reflects human suffering and the struggle for freedom and justice. He was also a leading figure of the Ukrainian national revival and a fighter for the rights of the Ukrainian people. In today’s world his legacy continues to inspire people and move them to act to improve society and defend human rights.

The open lesson dedicated to the Shevchenko Days at the Lesia Ukrainka Ukrainian School Abroad in Naples was met with enthusiasm and keen interest by pupils and teachers alike.

The lesson opened with a welcome from the Ukrainian language and literature teacher, Oksana Semenivna Hapalo, who briefly explained the purpose of the event. Pupils from the middle years then told the story of Taras Shevchenko’s life and read a selection of his poems, showing a deep understanding and feeling for poetic language.

It was a particular pleasure to welcome the guests of honour: the Consul General of Ukraine in Naples, Mr Maksym Volodymyrovych Kovalenko, and the President of the Coordination Centre of Ukrainian Associations, Ms Lara Levchun.

They greeted the participants and offered words of support.

The lesson ended with a general discussion and a summing-up, in which those present stressed how important it is to study and honour Taras Shevchenko’s work for the growth of national consciousness and culture.

… And glory to you, blue mountains,
Bound in ice.
And to you, great knights,
Not forgotten by God.
Fight on and you will win!
God is helping you!
Truth is with you, glory is with you,
And holy freedom! …