Mykhailo Charnyshenko, or Ukraine Eighty Years Ago

Mykhailo Charnyshenko, or Ukraine Eighty Years Ago is an early historical novel by Panteleimon Kulish, written in the 1840s under the influence of Walter Scott's works and family legends shared by the author's wife, Oleksandra Bilozerska. This work, also known as Ukraine Eighty Years Ago immerses the reader in the atmosphere of the second half of the 18th century, a period of decline for the Cossack Hetmanate. It masterfully recreates its national flavor, old-world customs, and the laws of that time. At the center of the narrative is Mykhailo Charnyshenko, a young centurion from Voronezh, who faces a fateful choice. He's torn between love and duty, understanding that any decision could have fatal consequences. Despite his inner doubts and a sense of impending destiny, Mykhailo refuses to succumb to it, demonstrating a willingness to sacrifice himself for his convictions.
Kulish creates a gallery of vivid and multi-layered characters whose actions, motives, and aspirations are revealed against the backdrop of turbulent historical events. The novel masterfully recreates the genetic essence of Ukrainians, emphasizing traits like courage, heroism, and military loyalty. This isn't just a description of events, but a deep exploration of the human soul in an era of great change, enveloped in a romantic veil that is a characteristic feature of Kulish's early work.