Karelian language dictionary as a source for studying road culture of the Livvi Karelians

Ethnologists refer to linguistic sources as storages of information about the bygone era because there are not enough informants about the traditional culture left. The analysis of Makarov's Karelian Language Dictionary identified the proper names and ethnographic information regarding Karelian road culture. The article presents detailed information about the names of the lines of communication, travel routes, transportation means, specific words used to refer to travelers, and some aspects of road behavior. The variety of names for the lines of communication suggests the importance of road travelling for the Karelians, especially during winter, which is indicated by specific terms used to describe the condition of roads in winter. This terminology indicates the syncretism of both Karelian and Russian road cultures: the names of Balto-Finnic origin remain the same in the sphere of overwater and oversnow travel, whereas Karelian terms referring to overland travel are replaced by Russian words. Illustrated material of the dictionary provides information about the rules of road behavior (for instance, singing was considered a norm), the criteria for selecting a place to sleep, and the Karelians' beliefs concerning the probability of encountering evil spirits on the road. The dictionary also contains information regarding road etiquette, particularly wishes for safe travelling. It reflects the Karelians' idea that the time of departure can be good or bad. Thus, the analysis of the Karelian Language Dictionary materials proved the importance and informativeness of linguistic sources for ethnology.