A Role of «Ruthenian trinity» in National Consciousness Awakening in Western Ukraine

While analyzing materials from the encyclopedic guides, scientific and publicist works, and periodical issues, the author examines historical roots (origin) of the half-legal democratic, educational and literary group the «Ruthenian Trinity» («Ruska Triytsia»). He shows the significance of study and popularization of the major mission seen by the Trinity members in: elevation of the Ukrainian language status and authority; introducing revolutionary changes to the literature of that time by incorporation of folk language; desire to enlighten people and promote awakening of their national consciousness to the greatest possible extent. The article shows the specific results of the «Ruthenian Trinity» activity: «walking to the people», publication of «The Ruthenian Son» manuscript collection (1833); preparation of «The Star» («Zoria») to printing (1834), as well as the reason why its publication was forbidden by both the Viennese and the Lvivian censorship. The analysis of grounding for the official prohibition to spread «Rusalka Dnistrovaia» («The Nymth of the Dniester») almanac (1836) among readers is provided. It is about the sense of studying history of your nation in the people’s unity, recognition of collective nature of their historical destiny, in development of national consciousness and ardent love to the native language and the native land