Authors

Aliaksandr Susha¹;  ¹ International Association for Belarusian Studies, Belarus

Discussion

The Grand Duchy of Lithuania, one of the largest states in Europe during the 16^th century, was a melting pot of diverse religious traditions and ethnicities. The 16^th century marked a pivotal era in the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, characterized by the emergence of Cyrillic book printing as a significant medium for the dissemination of religious and cultural texts. The advent of Cyrillic book printing during this period served as a catalyst for confessionalization, facilitating the spread of religious texts and ideas that shaped the spiritual and cultural identity of its inhabitants. The interplay between Orthodox, Catholic, Uniate, and Protestant confessionalization processes influenced Cyrillic printing in shaping religious identities and cultural landscapes.

Cyrillic book printing in the Grand Duchy of Lithuania served as a vehicle for the Orthodox Church to assert its identity, for the Catholic Church to expand its influence, and for the Uniate Church to navigate the complexities of religious affiliation. While Protestantism struggled to establish itself, its ideas nonetheless contributed to the broader discourse on faith and reform. The legacy of this period is reflected in the rich tapestry of religious and cultural life that continues to shape the region today. By analyzing key texts, printing practices, and the socio-political context, this study highlights the complexities of confessional affiliations and the impact of print culture on the religious and cultural life of the Grand Duchy.