Wednesday12 February 2025
segodnya.org.ua

Society of Morcimordia and the Brotherhood of Sobriety: How our ancestors consumed alcohol.

For centuries, alcohol has shaped the cultural landscape of Ukraine, intertwining with traditions, social rituals, and the ongoing struggle for sobriety.
Общество мочимордия и трезвости: как наши предки употребляли алкоголь.

Alcohol plays a significant role in the culture and social life of Ukraine. Its consumption has deep roots that trace back to ancient times, reflecting not only traditions but also societal changes.

In some Ukrainian villages, the level of alcoholism was so high that people held symbolic funerals for vodka. They filled graves and erected crosses as a protest against alcoholism. This act even received the blessing of the Pope.

Ancient Alcohol Consumption Traditions

In ancient Sumer and Egypt, alcohol was already a part of daily life. The earliest written references to beer date back to around 4000 BC. The Greeks and Romans developed rules for wine consumption, which became a symbol of cultural events. For instance, in Rome, legionaries received a daily ration of wine, while ordinary citizens could drink up to a liter a day.

In Ukraine, alcoholic beverages such as vodka, medovukha, and wine have a centuries-old history. Archaeological findings suggest that our ancestors produced alcohol during the Trypillian culture. Vodka, which has become a symbol of Ukrainian culture, emerged in the 15th century and quickly gained popularity among various social classes.

The Social Role of Alcohol

Alcohol is often associated with traditional celebrations and rituals. For example, at weddings and other family festivities, vodka is an indispensable part of any gathering. Drinking has become an integral part of social interaction, bringing people together at the table. However, it is important to remember the need for moderation: excessive alcohol consumption can lead to serious social and medical issues.

Interestingly, the poorer the village, the more alcohol was consumed. Folklorist Mykola Sumtsov noted: "They drink vodka at family gatherings – so that children grow up," highlighting the deep intertwining of alcohol with celebration traditions.

The society of "Mochimordia," which emerged in Ukraine in the late 1830s and early 1840s, became an important part of the cultural life of that era. This community, comprising members of the Ukrainian nobility and the literary-artistic bohemia, was characterized by its love for alcohol. Taras Shevchenko, one of Ukraine's most famous poets, was proclaimed the "hetman" of this society.

At the same time, there were various perspectives on alcohol in Ukraine. Some enjoyed alcoholic beverages and formed societies in honor of Bacchus, while others fought against drunkenness through the organization "Brotherhood of Sobriety." Ivan Sandulyak, a native of Galicia and a friend of Ivan Franko and Vasyl Stefanyk, caused all the taverns in the area to go bankrupt.

In modern times, in the 2000s, various restrictions on alcohol sales were introduced, including a ban on selling alcoholic beverages at night. These measures aimed to reduce the level of alcoholism among youth and improve the overall health of the population. However, their effectiveness remains a topic of debate.

Previously, "Telegraph" reported how at one time, Panteleimon Kulish drank wine. He had a glass with a secret.