Books matching: 19th century russian society
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- #1
"The Death of Ivan Ilych" by Leo Tolstoy is a short novella that delves into themes of mortality and self-realization. The story follows Ivan Ilych, a high-ranking judge in Russia, as he grapples with his impending death. Through Ivan's journey, the book explores the concept of living an inauthentic life driven by societal expectations, only to realize the true meaning of existence on his deathbed. Tolstoy's writing style in this novella is described as impactful, eye-opening, and profound, leaving readers reflecting on their own lives and mortality.
Within the edifice of the Public Courts, the advocates and prosecutor from the proceedings of the Melvinski trial spent a recess together in the office of Ivan Yegorovich Shebek, and a conversation ar... - #2
'Eugene Onegin' by Alexander Pushkin is a novel in verse form that tells the story of the protagonist, Yevgeniy Onegin, a bored and self-centered young man who inherits an estate in the countryside. The plot revolves around the relationships between Yevgeniy, Tatyana, Lensky, and Olga, exploring themes of love, friendship, tragedy, and societal expectations. Pushkin serves as the narrator, blending himself into the story and creating a narrative full of wit, beauty, and psychological insight. is a masterpiece of Russian literature, showcasing Pushkin's genius in weaving together intricate characters and themes through lyrical and tragic storytelling.
- #3
'A Hero of Our Time' by Mikhail Lermontov is a Russian novel featuring the complex character of Pechorin, a Byronic hero who is portrayed as selfish and hedonistic without any pretense of hidden goodness underneath. The book consists of interconnected short stories presented as Pechorin's diaries, showcasing his self-awareness of his flaws and his reluctance to change for the better. Set in the Caucasus, the book explores Pechorin's relationships, adventures, and manipulative behavior, providing a glimpse into 19th-century Russian society through a series of psychological and adventurous tales.
I was traveling post from Tiflis. The entire load of my cart consisted of one valise of average size, half-filled with my travel notes about Georgia. The majority of these, luckily for you, were lost;... - #4
Readers describe "Anna Karenina" as a complex novel that delves into the inner lives of its characters, particularly focusing on the tragic story of Anna Karenina and Count Vronsky's affair. The book also explores themes of love, society, morality, and faith, set against the backdrop of 19th-century Russia. Tolstoy's writing style is praised for its detailed descriptions, character development, and philosophical depth, making the reader question societal norms and human behavior.
The wife had discovered that the husband was carrying on an intrigue with a French girl, who had been a governess in their family, and she had announced to her husband that she could not go on living ... - #5
Dead Souls by Nikolai Gogol is a satirical novel set in the nineteenth century Russian countryside, following the protagonist, Chichikov, on his quest to purchase deceased serfs' names in order to deceive landowners and acquire wealth. The book offers a humorous yet chilling commentary on social class, ownership, and deception, intertwined with clever writing and character sketches that provide insight into Russian society at the time.
Despite being an unfinished work, Dead Souls is celebrated as a classic of Russian literature, blending realism and symbolism to create a multi-layered narrative that delves into the complexities of Russian society. Gogol's writing style is praised for its wit, rich descriptions, and satirical portrayal of characters, showcasing his talent for blending humor with social commentary in a way that transcends time and borders.
A rather pretty little chaise on springs, such as bachelors, half-pay officers, staff captains, landowners with about a hundred serfs—in short, all such as are spoken of as “gentlemen of the middling ... - #6
'The Brothers Karamazov' by Fyodor Dostoyevsky is a classic Russian tale that delves into the lives of Fyodor Pavlovich Karamazov and his sons Ivan, Dmitri, and Alexei. The novel is known for its acute examination of the psychology of its main characters, as well as its exploration of Russian identity, family dynamics, and ethical debates. The book weaves together a murder mystery, a psychological thriller, a religious treatise, and a social commentary, all while portraying a dysfunctional family and the struggles of humanity.
The writing style of 'The Brothers Karamazov' is described as deep, complex, philosophical, humane, and powerful. The book is praised for its sprawling narrative, great characters, and thought-provoking themes that encompass religion, morality, good vs. evil, and the essence of human nature. Despite its length and occasional tangents, readers appreciate the brilliance and relevance of the novel, which continues to challenge and inspire readers with its depth and complexity.
Alexey Fyodorovitch Karamazov was the third son of Fyodor PavlovitchKaramazov, a land owner well known in our district in his own day, andstill remembered among us owing to his gloomy and tragic death... - #7
"Crime and Punishment" by Fyodor Dostoyevsky follows the story of Raskolnikov, a destitute former student who commits a murder without remorse, delving into the psychological and philosophical arguments behind his crime. The protagonist struggles with guilt, paranoia, and justification for his actions, ultimately facing the consequences of his crime before his punishment is delivered. The novel offers a deep exploration of the criminal mind, the complexities of morality, and the societal implications of one's actions, set against the backdrop of 19th-century Russia.
Dostoyevsky's writing style in "Crime and Punishment" is described as captivating, suspenseful, and multi-layered, offering an exciting and intriguing narrative with well-developed subplots. is praised for its ability to provoke introspection and raise thought-provoking questions, making readers consider existential crises, moral dilemmas, and the nature of sin. Despite some finding the book dense or challenging, many appreciate the novel for its depth, complexity, and timeless relevance in addressing profound themes.
He had successfully avoided meeting his landlady on the stairs. His closet of a room was under the roof of a high, five-floor house and was more like a cupboard than a place in which to live. The land... - #8
'The Duel' by Anton Chekhov is a collection of stories that transport readers to the idyllic countryside of Russia, depicting real-life characters with charmingly awkward and old-fashioned narratives that still ring true. Chekhov's writing style captures the essence of Russian society in the 19th century, showcasing strong upper-class figures and exploring themes of masculinity, honor, and lust with a clear and cogent translation that makes the stories easy to read. The plot of 'The Duel' novella revolves around the contrasting nature of two principal characters, Laevsky and Von Koren, as they navigate love, duels, and societal expectations in a seaside town, ultimately culminating in a resolution with pistols at dawn.
It was eight o’clock in the morning—the time when officers, civil servants and visitors would habitually swim in the sea after a hot, airless night and then proceed to the pavilion for coffee or tea. ... - #9
'Rudin' by Ivan Turgenev portrays the eponymous protagonist as a well-intentioned individual who ultimately becomes an anti-hero. Turgenev's writing style is praised for being pleasant and his characters are described as truly memorable. The novel delves into the complexities of Rudin's character, his tendency for self-destruction, and the sacrifices that lead to frustration and confusion. The story is a character study that, despite its short length, offers a glimpse into the ills of Russian society at that time and the struggles of individuals like Rudin to fit in and be productive members.
- #10
Fathers and Children by Ivan Turgenev, published in 1862, is a wondrous story that captures the shifting dynamics of Russian society in the 19th century. The novel follows the characters through a period of societal change, highlighting the tensions between generations, the impact of the end of serfdom, and the emergence of nihilistic ideologies. Turgenev's writing style is praised for its keen observations, intuitive insights, and gentle portrayal of characters facing moral and philosophical dilemmas.
'Well, Piotr, not in sight yet?' was the question asked on May the 20th, 1859, by a gentleman of a little over forty, in a dusty coat and checked trousers, who came out without his hat on to the low s...