Hryhoriy Skovoroda (1722–1794) was an outstanding Ukrainian philosopher, poet, teacher and traveling thinker. He is one of the key figures of Ukrainian spiritual and cultural heritage, whose ideas were ahead of their time and remain relevant today. Skovoroda wrote philosophical treatises, poetry and fables, in which he discussed the topics of human happiness, freedom, morality and self-knowledge.
Skovoroda's philosophy combines Christian ideals with ancient tradition, in particular the concept of "kindred work" — the idea that a person finds true happiness by doing activities that correspond to his natural inclinations and talents. He traveled a lot in Ukraine, preaching his ideas and rejecting official church and secular positions.
The work of Hryhoriy Skovoroda had a great influence on Ukrainian literature and philosophy, his works were translated into many languages, and the image of a wandering philosopher became a symbol of freedom of spirit and the search for truth.
