SELF-PRAISE UTTERANCES IN UKRAINIAN CULTURE

Abstract

The article is dedicated to the portrayal of self-praise in Ukrainian proverbs, folktales, literature, social media, and humorous songs. Self-praise is regarded as a speech act providing positive characteristics, opinions, and statements about oneself or one’s accomplishments. Ukrainian society frowns upon self-praise, considering it a sign of arrogance. The Ukrainian lexical units denoting the act of self-praise have negative meanings associated with boasting and bragging.

The research results indicate that Ukrainian proverbs and folktales contain negative attitudes toward self-praise. Ukrainian proverbs valued as moral maxims often satirize those who boast, portraying them as foolish or self-deceived. Folktales frequently feature characters who are punished for their hubris and boastful behaviour. Ukrainian literature usually depicts boasting as a negative trait associated with arrogance and a lack of genuine merit. Users on social media repeatedly engage in self-praise, sometimes explicitly and sometimes implicitly, although this behaviour is generally frowned upon. This self-promotion often elicits negative responses from their followers. Ukrainian humorous songs mock those who exaggerate their achievements or abilities.

The cultural aversion to boasting reflects a deep-seated belief in the importance of humility and self-effacement. In Ukraine, modesty is highly valued, and it is generally considered inappropriate to boast about one’s accomplishments.