The characters of Karelian epic songs: from paganism to Christianity

Abstract

The article deals with the problem of changing scenes in Karelian epic songs influenced by the spread of Orthodoxy in areas of Olonets and Arkhangelsk dioceses. The initial idea of the world creation is saved, enhancing support the realities of parish life closely associated with the Christian ideas. Ultimately, epic songs allow the situation to go through the culture shock associated with abrupt and significant change in the outlook of the inhabitants of Northern Karelia.

Keywords

• epic
• peasants
• Karels
• Christianity
• clergy
• worldview
• Paganism