A Russian Gentleman (World's Classics S.) - Softcover

Aksakov, Sergei

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0192815733 ISBN 13: 9780192815736

Publisher: Oxford Paperbacks, 1982

Synopsis

At the centre of this chronicle of Russian provincial life in the reign of Catherine the Great stands the patriarchal figure of the author's grandfather, Stepan Mikhailovich. A man of great natural dignity, imbued with respect for tradition and love of the land, he is also despotic and virtually illiterate. Into the family comes his son's new wife, a spirited, intelligent girl from the town. Her eyes see a different world, tainted by grossness, cruelty, and squalor: she suffers from the hostility of jealous sisters-in-law and the shortcomings of a husband whom she loves but cannot respect. Her relationship with Stepan Mikhailovich is the heart of Aksakov's story, in which with great narrative skill and psychological insight he celebrates the old feudal way of life without concealing its darker, repressive side. This book is intended for general readers; students of Russian literature from A-level upwards.

About this title

About the Author:

Aksakov was considered one of 19th century Russia's finest prose stylists.

About this edition

• Publisher: Oxford Paperbacks
• Publication date: 1982
• ISBN 10: 0192815733
• ISBN 13: 9780192815736
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 226
• Editor: Crankshaw Edward