English and Belarusian sings and superstitions Автор: Мордачева Вероника Сергеевна, учащиеся 11 «Б» класса ГУО «Гимназия №1 г.п. Белыничи» Научный руководитель: Дудкина Лилия Ивановна учитель английского языка

The roots of signs and superstitions in Great Britain and Belarus As a result of fear and ignorance Ancient ceremonies Folklore Associated with ancient pagan gods and ancient Britain legends Originated from having the actions which had some sense in the old days and now they’re become symbolic today

The similarities between English and Belarusian superstitions Lucky and unlucky numbers Superstitions, connected with different animals, fish, birds and insects and plants Superstitions, connected with mirrors Superstitions, connected with weather conditions Ceremonies devoted to common holidays

The difference between English and Belarusian superstitions It is considered that rabbit’s paw brings good luck in Great Britain. The rabbit is the symbol of kindness, cosines, presents and protection. In Belinichi such a shield is the God’s mother with baby in arms. According to the legend, the foundation of this town in 1240 was connected with marvelous midnight shining (Belinichi-white night) of the sacred image of the Blessed Virgin. It was brought from Kiev to Belarusian land by monks. That’s why it is not by poor accident that God’s mother with a baby in her arms in golden clothes was depicted on the emblem of Belinichi.

The results of the test

A list of the most widespread Belarusian signs and superstitions If a newborn boy looks after his mother and a girl looks after her father, they will be happy in their life. If you meet a woman with buckets full of smth., you’ll have good luck. The clover-quatrefoil is a sign of welfare and happiness. If a bridegroom treads upon a pool in front of the bride’s house, the bride may be a drunkard. On the wedding-day a bride shouldn’t allow her friend stand before a mirror in front of her because she can take away her bridegroom.

A list of the most widespread English signs and superstitions If you want to have good health throughout the next year, eat an apple on Christmas Eve. If you want to be happy, eat Christmas pudding on Christmas Day. If you wear new shoes on Christmas Day, it will bring you bad luck. If you refuse a mince pie at Christmas dinner, you will have bad luck for the coming day. If you cut a mince pie, you will «cut your luck» too. If a baby is born on Christmas day, it will have a special fortune.

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