Specifics of the interpretation of Robert Burns’s poetry in Soviet literary studies of the 1950s

The aim of the research is to examine how Robert Burns’s satire was perceived in Soviet literary studies during the 1950s. The article analyzes the specific nature of the reception of Burns’s legacy during this period, a reception which was largely shaped by the ideological processes within Soviet society and influenced the interpretation of many of the Scottish poet’s texts. The scientific novelty of the study lies in the fact that E. A. Makarova’s views on the satire of Robert Burns are systematized and interpreted for the first time, making it possible to analyze and conceptualize his work from the perspective of Soviet ideologues. Reflecting the spirit of the era, Soviet literary studies of the 1950s emphasized the conflicts between different social classes, highlighted the inevitable retribution awaiting despotic rulers, and underscored the inevitability of progressive social change. As a result of the research, it was established that through an analysis of specific works, such as “The Twa Dogs”, “Address of Beelzebub”, and “Ode, Sacred to the Memory of Mrs. Oswald of Auchencruive”, etc. – the author explores the evolution of Burns’s satire as it was shaped by societal shifts, particularly provoked by the events of the French Revolution.