Subject
Russia -- Social life and customs -- 19th century -- Fiction Books
Best books
Leo Tolstoy
Katia
"Katia" by Count Léon Tolstoï is a novella written in the late 19th century. The story centers on Katia, a young woman grappling with grief after her mother's death and her transition into adulthood amid a backdrop of familial and societal expectations. As the narrative unfurls, themes of love, loneliness, and personal growth emerge through Katia's evolving relationship with her guardian, Sergius Mikaïlovitch. At the start of the novella, Katia is introduced as a seventeen-year-old mourning her mother's passing, feeling isolated and bored in the desolate countryside. The contrasts between her grief and emerging desires come to light with the arrival of Sergius Mikaïlovitch, a significant figure from her childhood. Their interactions reveal an underlying tension as Katia struggles with her feelings for him, navigating the complexities of growing up while longing for connection and companionship. The beginning sets the tone for a poignant exploration of love and self-discovery as Katia embarks on the journey to find her identity in a world shadowed by loss and emotional turmoil.
Ivan Sergeevich Turgenev
Ensimäinen rakkauteni
"Ensimäinen rakkauteni" by Ivan Sergeevich Turgenev is a novella first published in 1860. A sixteen-year-old boy falls deeply for his twenty-one-year-old neighbor, the captivating and capricious Zinaida. She toys with multiple suitors, treating the young narrator with sisterly affection while keeping her true feelings mysterious. As his infatuation deepens, he remains unaware of a shocking secret involving someone very close to him. Turgenev claimed this tale of first love was his most autobiographical work.
Leo Tolstoy
Perheonni
"Perheonni" by graf Leo Tolstoi is a novel written in the early 20th century. Set against the backdrop of a family grappling with the loss of their matriarch, the story revolves around the lives of three siblings, Maria, Katja, and Sonja, as they navigate grief and isolation on their estate. The narrative delves into their relationships and emotional struggles, particularly focusing on Maria, who feels trapped in her sorrow and begins to explore the possibility of love and happiness amidst her family's turmoil. At the start of the novel, the siblings are mourning their recently deceased mother during a dreary winter at their country estate. The atmosphere is heavy with sadness, and they are isolated, receiving few visitors who also bring reminders of their loss. Maria, the central character, at seventeen years old, wrestles with feelings of hopelessness and despair as she reflects on her life and future without her mother. Despite her melancholy, the arrival of Sergei Michailovitsh, a family friend, introduces a glimpse of warmth and potential change, as Maria grapples with her feelings towards him, contrasting her inner turmoil with newfound hope for a brighter future.
Fyodor Dostoyevsky
Dvojník. Nétička Nezvánova a Malinký Hrdina
"Dvojník. Nétička Nezvánova a Malinký Hrdina" by Fyodor Dostoyevsky is a novel written in the late 19th century. The narrative centers around the timid and anxious character of Jakub Goljadkin, who struggles with his identity and social standing in society. Themes of duality, alienation, and the individual’s sense of self in relation to others are likely explored as Goljadkin navigates his everyday life filled with anxiety and uncertainty. The opening of the novel introduces Jakub Goljadkin as he wakes from sleep, slowly realizing the reality of his mundane life in St. Petersburg. He exhibits a mixture of hopefulness and paranoia regarding his daily interactions, especially concerning his servant, Petruška. The text depicts Goljadkin’s preparatory rituals, revealing his obsessive nature as he seems to oscillate between self-satisfaction and deep insecurities about his social interactions, especially as he anticipates an important event that involves meeting his colleagues. Moments of his internal dialogue illuminate his complex emotional state, setting the stage for the psychological drama that will unfold as he grapples with his self-image and perceptions of those around him.
Henry Gréville
The Little Russian Servant
"The Little Russian Servant" by Henri Gréville is a novella written in the late 19th century that explores themes of class disparity and unrequited love. Set against the backdrop of Russian serfdom, the book navigates the lives of servants working in the grand houses of nobility. The story likely delves into the personal journey of Mavra, a young peasant girl, as she navigates her role within a wealthy household and her deepening feelings for the young Count Serge. The narrative follows Mavra as she is introduced into the service of a countess, where she engages in embroidery and caretaking duties. Her admiration for the countess and infatuation with her son Serge blossom as she goes about her daily tasks. Despite the hierarchy of their classes, Mavra cherishes her devotion to the family. Her world is turned upside down when Serge marries, leading Mavra back to her village in resignation. Eventually, she accepts a position as a nurse for Serge's newborn child, finding a sense of fulfillment in service. Throughout the story, Mavra’s innocent love and her indomitable spirit reflect the complexities of social class and longing for a connection beyond her humble beginnings.
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