The role of the main characters in the story by M.V. Gogol “The Night Before Christmas”
In the story “The Night Before Christmas”, M. Gogol uses the images of nativity characters to embody specific ideas and characteristics. For example, characters such as the devil, the devil, the witch and others play a key role in the development of the plot. They symbolize various aspects of Ukrainian folklore and beliefs. Heroes become guides between the real world and the world of fiction, superstitions and folk wisdom.
It is also important how the author uses these images to show the character of the Ukrainian village, its life and traditions. The characters act not only as elements of folk culture, but also as living symbols reflecting various human emotions and states: love, respect, respectful attitude towards father and mother.
In general, M. Gogol through the use of images of traditional characters of the Ukrainian nativity scene in his story “The Night Before Christmas” not only reproduces the color of Ukrainian folk life, but also creates a unique literary world where reality is intertwined with mythology and folklore. What roles do the main characters play in the work?
- Hell.
The devil in the story is depicted as a cunning and clever character who steals the moon. He acts as an intruder, setting off a chain of events that leads to a series of comical situations and becoming a “good assistant” to the blacksmith Vakula.
- Solokha.
Solokha, a witch and mother of Vakula, an attractive woman who charms men with her beauty. Along with this, she is a witch with an attractive appearance and a frivolous character. She is a key figure in a number of funny and confusing episodes. The witch and the devil in the novel by M.V. Gogols are not scary at all, on the contrary, they are stupid and funny. Sometimes they even look like lying, lazy, but not evil, funny people.
- Vakula. The main character, a blacksmith, is known for his courage and resourcefulness. He demonstrates giftedness, common sense and determination, overcoming obstacles for the sake of love for Oksana.
- Oksana.
The object of Vakula’s love is a young and beautiful girl. Her selfish desire to get the queen’s shoes becomes a decisive test for Vakula.
- Panas and other peasants.
Typical villagers who add national flavor and authenticity to the plot. They act as comic relief, showing the diversity of people’s life.
one of the main characters of the plot, who has a comic and characteristic image. He is depicted as a cowardly and greedy, cunning and cunning character who gets into humorous situations. He adds elements of farce and satire on the religious hierarchy to the plot.
- Chub.
Oksana’s father, the village headman. Chub acts as an important figure in the social hierarchy of the village, and his character reflects traditional values.
- Distinguished guests.
The king, queen, and other important persons who appear in the fantastic parts of the story introduce elements of high society and power, contrasting with the life of ordinary peasants.
Along with the real heroes in the story, there are fantastic ones. Some heroes, for example, Rat, look like ordinary people, but are capable of performing fantastic actions. Solokha also has a dual nature, capable of transforming into a witch.
All these characters play key roles in showing human characters and social relations in the society depicted by M. Gogol. In the story, the author not only shows Ukrainian folk traditions and customs, but also introduces us to the joyful and at the same time mysterious atmosphere of Ukrainian Christmas, creates a festive mood, instills faith in goodness in our souls (Fig. 9).
