THE LITERARY FUNCTION OF “JEREMIAH’S PRAYER”: A ROUGH WORKPIECE OR AN EPIGRAPH TO SHEVCHENKO’S MANUSCRIPT COLLECTION OF POEMS “THREE YEARS”?

The paper clarifies the literary function of Shevchenko’s “Jeremiah’s prayer”. At same time, it raises question poet’s identification and self-identification with Prophet Jeremiah because these issues can only be addressed in conjunction. Based on findings many researchers prayer” discussion between Shchurat Franko 1904 about Shevchenko Jeremiah, author concludes that is an epigraph not a rough workpiece as presented last collection works. Th fact important may deepen understanding creative pursuits 1843—1845, reasons for his interpretation “Three years” where Moscow captivity metaphorical Babylonian one, ruins Chyhyryn remind lost Jerusalem, Russia shown new Babylon. In this context, researcher points out image at beginning years”; use to it; David’s Psalm 136 (137) first retribution upon Babylon, which considered pretext Jeremiah’s second Judea; destruction Jerusalem its restoration; finally motive atonement taken by Ukrainians sins their fathers Moscow’s captivity.
 developed theme following sample who saw cause all Judea’s misfortunes against Lord. e Ukrainian national sins, especially evident poems from having historical connotations, mystery poem “The Great Cellar”, shows 1843—1845 identified himself King David biblical poets artistic models helped him create original Russian Empire future aft er overcoming empire.