Going Public in a Revolutionary Situation. Maidan and the Ordinary Citizen in Ukraine (Winter 2013-2014)

The Ukrainian protest movement of winter 2013-2014, known as Maidan in reference to the occupied main square in the center of Kiev, caused two types of protagonism to emerge among its ordinary participants. On the one hand, ordinary protagonism was displayed in the revolutionary routine, through the multiple activities organized in the public square (cooking, medical aid, safety patrols). It reflected peaceful forms of action that caused personalities to emerge on account of their long commitment, which was highlighted by the media and social networks. On the other hand, rebellious protagonism appeared when the protest became radicalized as a result of repression by the authorities. The opportunities for public recognition were enhanced when images of police violence against protestors were widely aired in the media. This type of protagonism relied on increased defiance toward the political elites, especially after the brutal days of February 18-20, 2014. It then became more of a political resource than synonymous with access to power.