Сімволіка зерня і яго вытворных у вясельна-абрадавай паэзіі беларусаў

Abstract

The article aims to analyse the most significant semantic components of the symbols of wheat and its derivatives in wedding rites and poetry. Special attention is given to comparative analysis between different cultures. The ritual use of bread and wheat has been associated with weddings throughout history. Since ancient times wheat and the wedding ritual bread have symbolised fertility and wealth, happiness and the everlasting union of the couple getting married, which is illustrated in many customs. Wheat and its derivatives are sometimes a symbol of the bride's virginity and some of them signal the end of the wedding.