Online lecture series at USUST explores the cult of motherhood in Ukrainian tradition

On April 8–10, 2026, the Ukrainian State University of Science and Technologies hosted a series of popular science online lectures ‘From Pagan Goddesses to the Virgin Mary: the Cult of Motherhood in Ukraine’. The event was organized as part of the historical and patriotic lecture cycle ‘Resilience of the Ukrainian nation: history and present’.

 

The lectures united academic mentors and students from several educational and scientific institutes of USUST, including USUCT, PSAPCS, PSACEA, DIIT, DMI.

The speaker, Larisa Bohuslavska, Candidate of  Philological Sciences, Associate Professor of the Department of Ukrainian Studies, Documentation  and Information Activities of the SEI PSACEA, as well as  a specialist of the Student Development  Department at USUST and head of the university section of the ‘Prosvita’ society named after Taras Shevchenko.

 

During the lectures, participants explored the origins of Ukrainian culture, beliefs, and identity, tracing the evolution of the image of the Mother. The discussion  ranged from the Trypillian ‘madonnas’, symbolizing life-giving power and fertility, through the traditional motanka doll as a family amulet and bearer of generational memory, to the iconic image of the Oranta Mother of God in Saint Sophia Cathedral in Kyiv – a powerful symbol of spiritual resilience and protection.

 

Particular attention was given to the formation of the Ukrainian cultural concept of motherhood as a symbol of love, protection, and resilience. The lectures successfully combined historical retrospection with contemporary reflections on cultural heritage, fostering lively discussion and strong engagement among participants.

 

Such events not only deepen knowledge of history and culture but also contribute to a holistic understanding of Ukrainian tradition as a foundation of national resilience in the present day.