Jefimija
Jefimija (Serbian Cyrillic: Јефимија, Serbian pronunciation: [jěfiːmija]; 1349–1405), secular name Jelena Mrnjavčević (Serbian Cyrillic: Јелена Мрњавчевић, pronounced [jělena mr̩̂ɲaːʋtʃeʋitɕ] or [mr̩ɲǎːʋ-]), daughter of Vojihna and widow of Jovan Uglješa Mrnjavčević, is considered the first female Serbian poet. Her Lament for a Dead Son and Encomium of Prince Lazar are famous in the canon of medieval Serbian literature.
Saint Jefimija Јефимија Jelena Mrnjavčević Јелена Мрњавчевић | |
|---|---|
Fresco detail in Ljubostinja Monastery | |
| Born | Јелена Мрњавчевић Jelena Mrnjavčević |
| Attributes | Orthodox Nun Christian poetry |
| Writing career | |
| Native name | Jelena Mrnjavčević |
| Occupation | Nun |
| Nationality | Medieval Serbian |
| Years active | 14th century |
| Notable works | Royal doors curtain of Hilandar; covering of Prince Lazar's Poem Her Lament for a Dead Son Poem Encomium of Prince Lazar Ark |
| Spouse | Uglješa Mrnjavčević |
| Relatives | Vojihna (father) |
Jefimija was also as a skilled needlewoman and engraver. Her lament for her beloved son was carved on the back of the diptych, (two-panelled icon representing a virgin and Child) which Teodosije, Bishop of Serres, had presented as a gift to the infant Uglješa at his baptism. The piece of art has Jefemija's lament engraved on its back.