Theoretical and Experimental Psychology
ISSN 2073-0861
eISSN 2782-5396
En Ru
ISSN 2073-0861
eISSN 2782-5396
Articles

Lev Vygotsky`s autograph for his brother David: experience of meaning reconstruction

Abstract

Background. The article contains an analysis of L.S. Vygotsky`s autograph for his brother David dated 4th August, 1917. Meaning reconstruction of this autograph not only sheds light on L.S. Vygotsky`s understanding of the art phenomenon during his early (pre-psychological) stage of work, but also helps us to assume his worldview position at this period. 

Objective. Reconstruction of L.S. Vygotsky`s understanding of the phenomenon of art at the period between two revolutions and comparison of this understanding with the concept of art given in his “Psychology of Art”. 

Methods. Elements of source analysis, theoretical analysis of literature devoted to the specified stages of L.S. Vygotsky`s life, analysis of archival documents. 

Results. In his autograph L.S. Vygotsky contrasts two understandings of art: art as a social sign activity for transmitting feelings between individuals (L.N. Tolstoy) and art as a supra-individual spiritual phenomenon, a metaphysical human activity purposed to justify the world (F. Nietzsche). At the time of August 4, 1917, L.S. Vygotsky agrees with Nietzsche`s concept of art as the idea of an instrument for justifying the world is close to him because of his personality and professional crisis. Later, in his “Psychology of Art” L.S. Vygotsky gives the art definition that is closer to the socially oriented definition of L.N. Tolstoy, thus moving away from metaphysics. 

Conclusion. The presented analysis of L.S. Vygotsky’s autograph is important for understanding his moods and thought at the period between two revolutions of 1917. It also reflects the nonlinearity of L.S. Vygotsky`s professional search throughout his life.


References

Archival materials. The Manuscripts Department of the National Library of Russia. F. 1169. D. 576. L. 8, 11–15, 42, 46, 47, 96. (In Russ.). 

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Received: 08/11/2022

Accepted: 08/15/2022

Accepted date: 10/13/2022

Keywords: L.S. Vygotsky; L.N. Tolstoy; F. Nietzsche; art; psychology of art; meaning; reconstruction

Available in the on-line version with: 13.10.2022

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