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The article deals with the semantic range of the «rumours» concept based on the Russian proverbs and sayings, collected by V. I. Dal and I. M. Snegiryov: the features, structure and content of rumours are analyzed. The subjects and objects of rumours are investigated. Also the connection between the «rumours» and «fame» is revealed.

The article dwells on the artistic functions of hearsay and fame in the plot of N. V. Gogol’s novel Taras Bulba, on their internal link with the folklore tradition. The cultural and historic essence of Zaporozhye Rada is considered; the analogies with the text of the novel are drawn.

Stylistic function of the motives of hearsay and fame are studied in the plots of «Old-World Landowners», «Viy», and «The Tale of How Ivan Ivanovich Quarreled with Ivan Nikiforovich» by N. V. Gogol. Their role in the plot and the chronotopos of the works is considered, as well as their meaning in the space of the stories, their linkages with the motives of emergency and disclosed mystery are regarded.