Abstract
The paper focuses on the analysis of A. S. Pushkin's ideas of happiness, which are reflected in his early lyrics. Pushkin's vitality and optimism determine his position on happiness. The study shows that the poet certainly takes into account the richest experience gained in world culture in interpreting the phenomenon of happiness, but even following others, the poet forms his own vision and understanding of happiness, which is reflected in his work. This study analyzes the poems in which young Pushkin's fascination with hedonistic philosophy manifests itself. The components of epicurean happiness for the poet's lyrical hero are considered: the cult of friendship and sensual pleasures, recognition of the power of wine, an enthusiastic discussion of art with friends, freedom from external conventions, ignoring the significance of wealth, career, social status, the ability to create, the understanding that happiness is not in the material world. It is logical that Pushkin's hero finds happiness not in a secular city, where everything obeys conventions, but in the world of rural peace. Pushkin's philosophy of escapism is determined by the influence of ancient philosophers, European and Russian enlighteners, and early Russian romantics. Happiness seems to Pushkin a rapidly changing state. Accepting the fact of fleeting happiness makes Pushkin even more appreciate this state, as well as life itself. Pushkin's ideas of happiness were also influenced by Christian culture, which determines the appearance of the category of suffering in his thoughts about happiness, as well as the appeal to the formula "Blessed is he who ..." Pushkin also correlates happiness with destiny. For Pushkin, happiness is primarily not a gift from the gods, it is an earthly experience that encourages a person to act, becoming the goal of his aspirations.
Key words
Pushkin, lyrics, antiquity, Christianity, hedonism, epicurism, escapism, happiness.