Author
Ivan Sergeevich Turgenev
1818-1883
Ivan Sergeevich Turgenev (1818-1883) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Ivan Sergeevich Turgenev
The Jew and Other Stories
"The Jew and Other Stories" by Ivan Sergeevich Turgenev is a collection of short stories written in the mid-19th century. The stories delve into themes of love, morality, and societal issues, with a particular focus on the experiences of Jewish characters in Russia. The opening story, "The Jew," introduces Nikolai Ilyitch, a soldier, and his encounter with a Jewish man named Girshel during the Napoleonic Wars, setting the stage for a complex exploration of human relationships and societal prejudices. The opening of "The Jew" presents Nikolai Ilyitch, an officer in the military, as he recounts a time of boredom while besieging the city of Dantzig. During this time, he encounters Girshel, a Jewish man who tends to the needs of the soldiers. Their interaction quickly unfolds into a mix of tension, intrigue, and personal desires, as Nikolai is both entertained and frustrated by Girshel's obsequiousness and opportunism. The story takes a darker turn as it leads to the introduction of Sara, a beautiful young Jewess brought into the tent by Girshel, highlighting themes of exploitation, innocence, and moral dilemmas that resonate throughout Turgenev's work. As the narrative progresses, it becomes evident that the characters are trapped within the confines of societal expectations and their own choices, creating a rich tapestry for readers to reflect upon.
The Torrents of Spring
"The Torrents of Spring" by Ivan Sergeevich Turgenev is a novella written between 1870 and 1871. This highly autobiographical work follows young Russian landowner Dimitry Sanin, who experiences his first overwhelming love while visiting Frankfurt. When a beautiful Italian woman named Gemma seeks his help with her fainting brother, Sanin's life takes an unexpected turn. Though Gemma is engaged to another man, powerful emotions begin to surface. The story explores passionate love, fateful choices, and memories that haunt across decades.
A Sportsman's Sketches, Volume 2 Works of Ivan Turgenev, Volume 2
"A Sportsman's Sketches, Volume 2" by Ivan Sergeevich Turgenev is a cycle of short stories published in 1852. Through the eyes of a hunting narrator, these sketches reveal the lives of Russian peasants and their masters across various estates and villages. Each encounter—whether with shrewd farmers, idealistic dreamers, or corrupt officials—exposes the injustices of serfdom and the stark contrasts between nobility and peasantry. Based on Turgenev's own observations at his mother's estate, these stories blend vivid character portraits with social commentary, establishing him as a major voice in Russian realist literature.
Fathers and Sons
"Fathers and Sons" by Ivan Sergeevich Turgenev is a novel published in 1862. When university graduate Arkady returns home with his friend Bazarov, a self-proclaimed nihilist, generational tensions erupt. Bazarov's radical philosophy clashes with the older generation's values, while both young men find their beliefs tested by unexpected romance. As ideological conflicts intensify and personal relationships grow complicated, the story explores the widening gap between traditional Russian society and a new generation determined to reject everything their fathers held sacred.
Virgin Soil
"Virgin Soil" by Ivan Turgenev is a novel published in 1877. This final and most ambitious work follows young Russian idealists in the late 1860s and early 1870s who abandon privileged lives to join the Populist movement and live among peasants and workers. The story centers on Nezhdanov, an aristocrat's illegitimate son working as a tutor, who seeks to radicalize the peasantry while becoming entangled with Marianna. Turgenev portrays these revolutionaries as well-meaning individuals pursuing a path he believed destined to fail.
First love, and other stories
"First love, and other stories" by Ivan Sergeevich Turgenev is a collection of short fiction first published in 1860. The title novella tells the story of a sixteen-year-old boy's infatuation with a capricious twenty-one-year-old neighbor. Turgenev considered it his most autobiographical work, drawing from a youthful episode involving a young princess who captured his heart. The tale explores the complexities of passion when Vladimir discovers unexpected truths about Zinaida's affections, creating a narrative that divided critics yet captivated readers, including the Russian emperor himself.
A Desperate Character and Other Stories
"A Desperate Character and Other Stories" by Ivan Sergeevich Turgenev is a collection of short stories written in the late 19th century. The stories reflect Turgenev's keen observations on Russian society and deep psychological character studies, particularly focusing on themes of desperation, dissatisfaction, and the quest for meaning. The opening tale introduces Misha Poltyev, a seemingly aimless young man who spirals from a sheltered upbringing into a life of reckless abandon, showcasing his transformation from a well-mannered boy to a desperate adult seeking solace in self-destructive behavior. At the start of the story, the narrator recounts a discussion about the nature of desperation among contemporary individuals, leading to the tale of Misha Poltyev told by an older relative, referred to as P. Misha begins as a delicate boy raised under strict parental guidance, but following the death of his parents, he rapidly descends into a life marked by debauchery and capricious whims. As an adult, this character embodies the chaos and disillusionment of youth, as he spends extravagantly and engages in reckless behaviors, including heavy drinking and even mocking his own nobility. Misha's frequent wild adventures and self-destructive impulses create a poignant portrait of a desperate character burdened by the weight of societal expectations and personal failures.
Fathers and Children
"Fathers and Children" by Ivan Sergeevich Turgenev is a novel published in 1862. When university graduate Arkady returns home with his friend Bazarov, a self-proclaimed nihilist, their radical philosophy clashes with the older generation's values. Bazarov's rejection of tradition and emotion is tested when he meets the captivating Anna Odintsova. As romantic entanglements develop and tensions escalate between generations, the young men must confront whether their ideals can withstand the complexities of love, family, and mortality in nineteenth-century Russia.
Vaders en Zonen
"Vaders en Zonen" by Ivan Sergeevich Turgenev is a novel published in 1862. When university graduate Arkady returns home with his radical friend Bazarov, their nihilist philosophy clashes with the older generation's traditional values. As tensions mount between the young idealists and their elders, romantic entanglements complicate matters further. Bazarov's cynical worldview faces its greatest test when he unexpectedly falls in love, forcing him to confront feelings that contradict everything he believes in.
On the eve: A novel
"On the eve: A novel by Ivan Sergeevich Turgenev" is a novel first published in 1859. The story follows Elena Stakhova, a young woman pursued by multiple suitors on the eve of the Crimean War. When she meets Dmitri Insarov, a revolutionary Bulgarian, they fall in love and secretly marry, defying her parents' wishes. Their union leads them on a tragic journey that tests their ideals and devotion, ultimately taking Elena far from home in search of a cause greater than herself.
A Sportsman's Sketches Works of Ivan Turgenev, Volume I
"A Sportsman's Sketches" by Ivan Turgenev is a cycle of short stories published in 1852. Through the eyes of a hunter wandering the Russian countryside, these interconnected tales reveal the lives of peasants and landowners he encounters. The narrator observes with quiet detachment as he discovers the intelligence of serfs, the cruelties of their masters, and the injustices of the system binding them. Based on Turgenev's own observations at his mother's estate, these sketches capture both natural beauty and social darkness in rural Russia.
Rudin: A Novel
"Rudin: A Novel by Ivan Sergeevich Turgenev" is a novel first published in 1856. It explores the "superfluous man"—a brilliant, eloquent intellectual incapable of translating words into action. When the educated nobleman Rudin arrives at a country estate, his powerful speeches captivate everyone, especially the intelligent seventeen-year-old Natalya. As their relationship deepens, the central question emerges: can this man of magnificent ideas overcome his paralyzing inability to act? Set during Russia's reformist awakening, the novel examines a generation caught between grand ideals and practical impotence.
Dream Tales and Prose Poems
"Dream Tales and Prose Poems" by Ivan Sergeevich Turgenev is a collection of narrative prose works written in the late 19th century. The stories delve into the realms of dreams, emotions, and complex human relationships, often highlighting the struggles of individuals caught between their desires and societal expectations. The opening tale, "Clara Militch," focuses on Yakov Aratov, a young man living in Moscow, and his interactions with his overprotective aunt and a mysterious Georgian princess, setting the stage for themes of unrequited love and artistic aspiration. The beginning of "Clara Militch" introduces us to Yakov Aratov, who leads a reclusive life under the guardianship of his elderly aunt, Platonida Ivanovna. Yakov is characterized by his delicate health and introspective nature, ensnared in a solitary existence amidst his studies and dreams. His world shifts when he is persuaded by his friend Kupfer to attend a musical matinée hosted by the intriguing Georgian princess, where he encounters Clara Militch, a passionate but troubled young actress. Despite being immediately drawn to her, Yakov battles with conflicting feelings of admiration and discomfort as he attempts to navigate a world of art and social interaction that feels foreign to him. Clara's enigmatic presence profoundly impacts Yakov, foreshadowing the emotional turmoil that follows in their lives.
A House of Gentlefolk
"A House of Gentlefolk" by Ivan Turgenev is a novel published in January 1859. Fyodor Lavretsky returns to his family estate after discovering his wife's betrayal in Paris. There he falls in love with his cousin's devout daughter, Liza, who offers everything his unfaithful wife was not. When a newspaper reports his wife's death, Lavretsky and Liza confess their feelings for each other. But fate has other plans that will test their love and force them to confront impossible choices about duty, faith, and happiness.
Smoke
"Smoke" by Ivan Turgenev is a novel published in 1867 that interweaves a passionate love affair with biting social criticism. Set in the German resort town of Baden-Baden, the story follows young Grigory Litvinov, who arrives to meet his fiancée but encounters a mysterious woman from his past. As old feelings resurface, Turgenev satirizes Russian society through sharp portrayals of both conservative aristocrats and radical Slavophiles, offering his vision of Russia's future through pointed political commentary.
A Reckless Character, and Other Stories
"A Reckless Character, and Other Stories" by Ivan Sergeevich Turgenev is a collection of short stories written in the late 19th century. The primary narrative introduces us to Mísha Pólteff, a young man whose reckless behavior and charm lead him into disreputable situations following the death of his parents. Turgenev explores themes of societal expectations, the search for meaning, and the actions and consequences of living a capricious lifestyle. At the start of the book, we are introduced to a group discussing contemporary matters, where an older character begins recounting Mísha's story as an example of reckless youth. Mísha grows up in a stifling environment, shaped by the rigid traditions of his family, particularly by his father, a pious and melancholic landowner. After a sheltered upbringing, Mísha's life spirals out of control following the loss of his parents, distancing himself from duty and responsibility, culminating in a capricious and dissolute existence marked by gambling, drinking, and failed attempts at reform. The opening portion sets a tone of tragic irony and hints at deeper reflections on the nature of recklessness and the emptiness it can lead to.
Knock, Knock, Knock and Other Stories
"Knock, Knock, Knock and Other Stories" by Ivan Sergeevich Turgenev is a collection of short stories written during the late 19th century. The book introduces the themes of fate, character complexity, and the intricacies of human relationships through various narratives that revolve around compelling individuals, notably focusing on Lieutenant Ilya Tyeglev, who embodies a mix of romantic fatalism and tragic self-awareness in his life experiences. At the start of "Knock, Knock, Knock," we are introduced to the narrator and his reflections on the character of Lieutenant Tyeglev, described as a man marked by a sense of "fatality" despite his ordinary exterior. The opening vignette revisits Tyeglev's past experiences, detailing his ambiguous reputation and unique interactions that hint at deeper emotional currents. As the narrator recalls Tyeglev’s interactions with friends and his own inner complexities, he begins to unravel Tyeglev's heavy heart, ultimately leading up to a mysterious, haunting night where strange knocking sounds begin to echo and lead to deeper revelations about destiny and love, setting a contemplative and eerie tone for the reader.
The diary of a superfluous man, and other stories
"The Diary of a Superfluous Man" by Ivan Sergeevich Turgenev is a collection of semi-autobiographical stories written during the late 19th century. The central narrative follows the life of the main character, Tchulkaturin, as he grapples with his impending death and reflects on his own existence and perceived uselessness in society. At the start of the story, we meet Tchulkaturin, a man who is near death and begins writing a diary to explore his past and feelings. He delves into his family life, discussing his father's gambling issues and his mother's virtuous but stifling demeanor. Tchulkaturin describes his upbringing and his feelings of inadequacy, labeling himself as "superfluous." As he recounts anecdotes about his childhood, his relationships, and his emotional struggles, he reveals a complex character marked by feelings of joy and despair, particularly regarding his unrequited love for Liza, a charming girl he encounters later in his life. The opening lays a foundation for deep existential musings, highlighting themes of love, identity, and the human condition.
A Lear of the Steppes, etc.
"A Lear of the Steppes, etc." by Ivan Sergeevich Turgenev is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around the character of Martin Petrovitch Harlov, a giant of a man with a colorful personality, whose life is intertwined with his family and local community. Turgenev delves into themes of life, death, and the complexity of personal relationships, presenting a rich tapestry of character interactions that reveals the intricacies of human nature. At the start of the novel, a group of friends gathers to discuss Shakespeare, and one of them recounts memories of Martin Petrovitch Harlov, a neighbor from his childhood. Through vivid descriptions, we learn about Harlov's imposing physical presence, his personality, and how he is perceived by others, especially the narrator. The narrative sets the stage for exploring Harlov's life, his daughters, and the surrounding community, hinting at deeper themes of legacy and familial duty as Harlov confronts his own mortality and the decisions he must make for his family. This opening promises an in-depth character study intertwined with broader reflections on life and the inevitable passage of time.
Väter und Söhne
"Väter und Söhne" by Ivan Sergeevich Turgenev is a novel published in 1862. When university graduate Arkady returns home with his friend Bazarov, a self-proclaimed nihilist, their radical philosophy clashes with the older generation's values. Tensions mount as Bazarov's dismissal of tradition and emotion faces challenges from unexpected sources—including his own heart when he meets the elegant Anna Odintsova. As conflicts escalate between fathers and sons, passion and ideology, the young men must confront what their beliefs truly mean.
A Nobleman's Nest
"A Nobleman's Nest" by Ivan Sergeevich Turgenev is a novel published in 1859. Fyodor Lavretsky returns to his Russian estate after discovering his wife's betrayal in Paris. There, he falls in love with his cousin's daughter, Liza, a devoutly religious young woman. When news arrives that his wife has died, they confess their feelings for each other. But fate intervenes, forcing both to confront impossible choices between love, duty, and personal redemption in nineteenth-century Russian society.
Lettres à Madame Viardot
"Lettres à Madame Viardot" by Ivan Sergeevich Turgenev is a collection of correspondence written in the mid-19th century. The letters chronicle the relationship between Turgenev and the renowned singer Pauline Viardot, capturing their artistic camaraderie and personal friendship. This compilation not only serves as a personal record but also provides insights into the cultural and artistic landscape of the period. The opening of the work presents an intriguing context for these letters, depicting how Turgenev's correspondence with Viardot commenced and evolved. It discusses the history of the letters, which were lost during the turmoil of the Franco-Prussian War and rediscovered many years later, highlighting the deep bond shared between the two artists. Turgenev expresses his excitement at Viardot's successes and offers personal reflections on literature and music, while also revealing glimpses into his solitary life as a writer. The opening thus sets a tone of warmth, intellectual engagement, and deep respect that will likely permeate their ongoing correspondence throughout the collection.
Visionen und andere phantastische Erzählungen
"Visionen und andere phantastische Erzählungen" by Ivan Sergeevich Turgenev is a collection of fantastical tales written in the mid-19th century. This work presents a mix of haunting imagery and deep emotional undertones, exploring themes of longing, mystery, and the interplay between reality and imagination, which is evident in its opening story that introduces characters entangled in a web of dreams and memories. The beginning of the book takes us into the world of a passionate hunter who becomes enraptured by the beauty of an unknown woman he encounters during his time in the countryside. As he hunts near a secluded manor, he experiences a profound sense of longing and nostalgia, ultimately leading to a mysterious and surreal connection with the woman, reminiscent of a past encounter in Italy. This sets the stage for an exploration of desire, fate, and the inexplicable nature of human emotions, as he grapples with the essence of his feelings and the fleeting nature of his encounters. The narrative captures a rich atmospheric tension between the known world and the ethereal, enticing readers into Turgenev’s exploration of deeper existential themes that resonate throughout the collection.
Elektitaj noveloj
"Elektitaj Noveloj" by Ivan Sergeevich Turgenev is a collection of short stories written in the mid-19th century. The book features Turgenev's renowned ability to portray the struggles and emotions of various characters, with a focus on the harsh realities of life under serfdom in Russia. The opening portion introduces Gerasim, a deaf-mute servant, who represents Turgenev’s themes of social injustice and the quest for personal connection amidst a repressive social system. The opening of "Elektitaj Noveloj" describes the life of Gerasim, a strong but silent man who works as a household guard in a wealthy widow's home in Moscow. Isolated in a life far removed from his rural upbringing, Gerasim struggles to adjust to urban living while diligently fulfilling his duties. He develops a deep affection for Tatjana, a humble laundress, and forms a bond with a little dog named Mumu, whom he rescues. The text sets the tone for the emotional depth and social critique that will characterize Turgenev's storytelling, as it hints at the conflicts of love, duty, and societal expectations that will follow.