The Evolution of Ukrainian Literary Reception: Insights from the Translation of Hans Christian Andersen’s Works

Abstract This article examines the reception of Hans Christian Andersen’s tales in Ukraine by analyzing the translation history, socio-political context, and cultural interpretation. It explores the complex ways in which the understanding of translation has changed as it was influenced by Ukraine’s relationship with Russia and the Soviet Union and the impact of these factors on dissemination and interpretation. The study also investigates the cultural comprehension of Andersen’s works in Ukraine, focusing on translating Christian motifs and reflecting Ukrainian cultural perspectives on religion. Additionally, it considers the influence of Soviet-era translation censorship on the reception and interpretation of Andersen’s tales. By connecting these objectives, the article provides insights into the role of Andersen’s tales in Ukrainian literature and society, highlighting the historical context, societal values, and challenges faced during the translation process. The study contributes to a deeper understanding of the reception and interpretation of Andersen’s tales within the Ukrainian literary landscape