Мне с вопросами и ответить на них 1. why were children's toys treated with respect? 2. what dolls did a girl get? 3. why did dolls play such an important role in the life of belarusian people? several years ago, a local crafts centre in the village of strenki in rogachev district began to collect ancient stories on how, why and for whom dolls were made. in fact, some were created to protect homes, health, beauty, wealth and luck. "protecting dolls had magical significance for our ancestors, serving as mediators between people and the other world," explains anastasia povarich, a junior research officer at gomel's rumyantsev-paskevich park and palace ensemble, where the dolls are being exhibited now. "childhood began with dolls, which accompanied people throughout their life." most were made by women, who created dolls from early childhood by twisting, bending and tying, without needles or scissors. each doll was created without a definite face, to avoid evil settling within it, and could be made from natural materials such as twigs, straw, grass or flowers. children's toys were treated with respect, since they were thought to possess magic powers and to encourage positive energy, bringing a good harvest, wealth and happy marriages. if children spent enough time playing with dolls, there would be enough money in the house while, if children were careless with dolls, troubles might occur. as a girl grew older, she received a 'zhelannitsa' doll, which would make dreams come true if a bead* or ribbon* was attached. the doll — the performer of the sacred* wish was hidden in a secret place. when a young girl was due to marry, a 'desyatiruchka' doll (assistant with ten hands) was placed in her trunk*, to assist in household routines. people couldn't do without dolls in their household. all the dolls were honoured in everyday life and during holidays. it was customary for children to make dolls to give as gifts to adults, in this way, children were taught to be thankful. it was also believed that, when making such dolls, children gave part of their soul to them, learning to be tender and kind.