Author
N. S. (Nikolai Semenovich) Leskov
1831-1895
N. S. (Nikolai Semenovich) Leskov (1831-1895) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
Books by N. S. (Nikolai Semenovich) Leskov
The Steel Flea
"The Steel Flea" by N. S. Leskov is a skaz written in 1881. Styled as a folk tale, it follows a left-handed craftsman from Tula who astonishes both Russian and English courts by shoeing a tiny mechanical flea created by English inventors. Through humor and distinctive language, Leskov explores Russian ingenuity and patriotism while critiquing a society that neglects its most talented people, ultimately delivering a tragic commentary on wasted genius.
Eine Teufelsaustreibung, und andere Geschichten
"Eine Teufelsaustreibung, und andere Geschichten" by N. S. Leskov is a collection of stories likely written in the late 19th century. The narratives delve into themes of the supernatural, human folly, and the cultural landscape of Russia, focusing notably on eccentric characters and their experiences, prominently featuring the character of Ilja Fedossejewitsch, whose adventures set the tone for the stories. The opening of the collection introduces the protagonist, who recounts an extraordinary experience attending an exorcism in Moscow, an event requiring luck and special connections to witness. The narrator, a young nobleman, reflects on his family background and the influence of his mother, prompting him to visit his influential uncle. This visit quickly leads him into an unexpected excursion that reveals the uncle's larger-than-life personality and a series of comedic misadventures, setting a vivid and humorous stage for the subsequent tales in the collection.
Der versiegelte Engel, und andere Geschichten
"Der versiegelte Engel, und andere Geschichten" by N. S. Leskov is a collection published in 1873. The title story follows Old Believer construction workers in 1850s Ukraine whose precious two-hundred-year-old angel icon is confiscated and sealed by authorities. When their spiritual protector is taken, the group embarks on a daring mission to recover their sacred treasure. The narrative explores themes of religious persecution, faith, and the lengths believers will go to preserve what they hold most sacred.
Die Klerisei
"Die Klerisei" by N. S. Leskov is a novel written between 1866-1871. Set in the provincial town of Stargorod, it chronicles the lives of three clergymen: the elderly Propst Saweli Tuberosow, the impulsive Diakon Achilla Desnizyn, and the modest Pfarrer Sacharija Benefaktow. When a state inspector arrives from Petersburg, political intrigue and personal vendettas threaten to destroy the community. The novel explores tensions between clergy and state power in nineteenth-century Russia.
Novellen
"Novellen" by N. S. Lěskov is a collection of short stories written in the late 19th century. The work focuses on various aspects of Russian life, culture, and society, exploring the complexities of human nature through intriguing characters and their experiences. Lěskov is known for his vivid portrayals of Russian clergy and common folk, delving into moral dilemmas and social commentary that resonate deeply. The opening of "Novellen" begins with a narrative about a wedding that takes place in a rural village, where the festivities are filled with joy and revelry, highlighting the cultural practices of the time. Amid the merriment, a diacon’s lighthearted dance sparks a conflict with the church's authority, leading to a humorous yet poignant resolution. This initial tale sets the stage for Lěskov’s exploration of societal norms and the often absurd nature of human behavior, while intertwining elements of local lore and character-driven storytelling that promise a rich reading experience throughout the collection.