The problem of relationships between fathers and children is eternal. The reason lies in differences in life views. Each generation has its own truth, and it is extremely difficult to understand each other, and sometimes there is no desire. Contrasting worldviews- this is the basis of the work Fathers and Sons, a summary of which we will consider.
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Creation
The idea of creating the work “Fathers and Sons” arose from the writer Ivan Turgenev in August 1860. The author writes to Countess Lambert about his intention to write a new big story. In the fall he goes to Paris, and in September he writes to Annenkov about the final drawing up a plan and serious intentions in creating a novel. But Turgenev works rather slowly and doubts a good result. However, having received an approving opinion from the literary critic Botkin, he plans to complete the creation in the spring.
Early winter - period of active work writer, within three weeks the third part of the work was written. Turgenev asked to describe in detail in his letters how things were in the life of Russia. This happened before, and in order to be privy to the events of the country, Ivan Sergeevich decides to return.
Attention! The history of writing ended on July 20, 1861, when the author was in Spassky. In the fall, Turgenev again goes to France. There, during a meeting, he shows his creation to Botkin and Sluchevsky and receives many comments that push him to make changes to the text.
Next spring the novel will be published in magazine "Russian Herald" and he immediately became the object of polemical discussion. The controversy did not subside even after the death of Turgenev.
Genre and number of chapters
If we characterize the genre of the work, then “Fathers and Sons” is 28 chapter novel, showing the socio-political situation in the country before the abolition of serfdom.
main idea
What are we talking about? In his creation “fathers and sons” Turgenev describes contradiction and misunderstanding of different generations, and also wants to find a way out of the current situation, ways to get rid of the problem.
The struggle between the two camps is a confrontation between everything that is established and what is radically new, era of democrats and aristocrats, or helplessness and determination.
Turgenev is trying to show what has come time for a change and instead of people of the outdated system, nobles, active, energetic and young people come. The old system has become obsolete, and the new one has not yet been formed. The novel “Fathers and Sons” shows us the turn of an era when society is in turmoil and is unable to live either according to the old canons or the new ones.
The new generation in the novel is represented by Bazarov, around whom the confrontation between “fathers and sons” takes place. He is a representative of a whole galaxy of the younger generation, for whom complete denial of everything has become the norm. Everything old is unacceptable to them, but they can't bring anything new.
The conflict of worldviews is clearly shown between him and the elder Kirsanov: the rude and straightforward Bazarov and the mannered and refined Kirsanov. The images described by Turgenev are multifaceted and ambiguous. Bazarov's attitude towards the world does not bring happiness at all. They outlined their purpose to society - fight against old ways, but the introduction of new ideas and views in their place does not bother him.
Turgenev did this for a reason, thereby showing that before the collapse of something established, it is necessary to find a worthy replacement for it. If there is no alternative, then even what was intended to be a positive solution to the problem will only make it worse.
Conflict of generations in the novel “Fathers and Sons”.
Heroes of the novel
The main characters of “Fathers and Sons” are:
- Bazarov Evgeny Vasilievich. Young student learning to become a doctor. Adheres to the ideology of nihilism, questions the liberal views of the Kirsanovs and the traditional views of his own parents. At the end of the work, he falls in love with Anna, and his views of denying everything in the world are changed by love. He will become a village doctor, and due to his own carelessness he will become infected with typhus and die.
- Kirsanov Nikolai Petrovich. Is the father of Arkady, widower. Landowner. He lives on the estate with Fenechka, a commoner woman, whom he feels and is ashamed of, but then takes her as his wife.
- Kirsanov Pavel Petrovich. He is Nikolai's older brother. He retired officer, a representative of a privileged layer, is proud and self-confident, shares the ideas of liberalism. He often participates in disputes with Bazarov on a variety of topics: art, science, love, nature, etc. Hatred towards Bazarov develops into a duel, which he himself initiated. During the duel he is wounded, fortunately the wound turns out to be minor.
- Kirsanov Arkady Nikolaevich. Is the son of Nicholas. Candidate of Sciences at the University. Like his friend Bazarov, he is a nihilist. At the end of the book he will abandon his worldview.
- Bazarov Vasily Ivanovich. Is the father of the main character, was a surgeon in the army. He did not leave his medical practice. Lives on his wife's estate. An educated person understands that living in a village, he was cut off from modern ideas. Conservative, religious.
- Bazarova Arina Vlasevna. She is the main character's mother. She owns the Bazarov estate and fifteen serfs. Superstitious, pious, suspicious, sensitive woman. He loves his son infinitely, and is worried that he has renounced his faith. She herself is a follower of the Orthodox faith.
- Odintsova Anna Sergeevna. Is a widow, rich. On his estate he welcomes friends who hold nihilistic views. She likes Bazarov, but after his declaration of love, there is no reciprocity. He puts a calm life in the foreground, in which there are no worries.
- Katerina. Anna Sergeevna's sister, but unlike her, she is quiet and unnoticeable. He plays the clavichord. Arkady Kirsanov spends a lot of time with her, while he is passionately in love with Anna. Then he realizes that he loves Katerina and marries her.
Other heroes:
- Fenechka. Daughter of the housekeeper of Kirsanov's younger brother. After his mother died, she became his mistress and gave birth to his son.
- Sitnikov Victor. He is a nihilist and acquaintance of Bazarov.
- Kukshina Evdokia. Victor's friend, a nihilist.
- Kolyazin Matvey Ilyich. He is a city official.
The main characters of the novel "Fathers and Sons".
Plot
Fathers and sons are summarized below. 1859 – year when the novel begins.
The young people arrived in Maryino and live in the house of brothers Nikolai and Pavel Kirsanov. The elder Kirsanov and Bazarov do not find a common language, and frequent conflict situations force Evgeniy to leave for another city N. Arkady also goes there. There they communicate with urban youth (Sitnikova and Kukshina), who adhere to nihilistic views.
At the governor's ball they hold meeting Odintsova, and then go to her estate, Kukshina is destined to stay in the city. Odintsova rejects the declaration of love, and Bazarov has to leave Nikolskoye. He and Arkady go to their parents' house and stay there. Evgeny does not like the excessive care of his parents, he decides to leave Vasily Ivanovich and Arina Vlasevna, and
Here is a summary of the final chapters of Turgenev’s novel “Fathers and Sons,” namely chapters 21 – 28.
On the site you will also find:
Click on the desired chapter to go to its contents.
Fathers and Sons. Chapter 21. Summary.
The next morning, Arkady sees Bazarov's father planting turnips. Father asks Arkady about Evgeniy. He honestly answers that Evgeny Bazarov is one of the most remarkable people of his time. Father is very happy to hear such words.
During the day, while resting, Bazarov talks with Kirsanov. We are talking about life, about hatred. Bazarov says to Arkady: “ You are a gentle soul, a weakling, where can you hate!"Arkady wants to know how highly Bazarov thinks of himself. He answers: “ When I meet a person who would not give up on me... then I will change my opinion about myself e". Bazarov reminds Kirsanov how he once, passing by the house of the elder Philip, said:
“Russia will then achieve perfection when the last man has the same premises, and each of us must contribute to this...”
A Bazarov " I hated this last guy, Philip or Sidor, for whom... I have to bend over backwards and who won’t even say thank you». « Well, he will live in a white hut, and a burdock will grow out of me“says Evgeniy.
Bazarov believes that all people act based on sensation. He says:
“I’m pleased to deny it, my brain works that way - and that’s it! Why do I like chemistry? Why do you love apples? - also due to sensation. People will never go deeper than this.”
Bazarov, a very cynical person, asks Arkady not to speak beautifully; believes that there is no need to follow in the footsteps of Pavel Petrovich, whom he calls an idiot. Arkady is outraged by this characterization. Soon Vasily Ivanovich, Evgeniy’s father, arrives. He announces that a priest will be present at dinner.
Bazarov is bored and is about to leave. The parents are very upset.
Fathers and Sons. Chapter 22. Summary.
On the way, the friends stopped by Madame Odintsova again. However, she received them very coldly. A few hours later the young people left. In parting, Odintsova assured that she was waiting for them to visit again.
The friends went to the Kirsanov estate. There they were greeted with joy. Things are not going well for Nikolai Petrovich on his farm. Arkady is going to pretend that he is ready to help his father. Bazarov again conducts experiments on frogs.
Arkady learned from his father that Anna Sergeevna Odintsova’s late mother wrote to Arkady’s mother. Arkady asked his father to give him these letters. He needs them as a reason for a new trip to the Odintsov estate. Arkady went alone and saw Katya in the garden. The girl was very happy with him.
Fathers and Sons. Chapter 23. Summary
Meanwhile, Nikolai Petrovich communicates with Bazarov quite often. He is interested in the experiments conducted by the young naturalist. Bazarov often talks with Fenechka. One day he asks if she agrees to pay for him to cure the child. Bazarov says that he does not need money, but one of the roses that Fenechka collected for the morning bouquet. Fenechka gave Bazarov a rose. Eugene kissed the young woman on the lips. At that moment Pavel Petrovich was nearby.
Fathers and Sons. Chapter 24. Summary.
Two hours later, Pavel Petrovich asked Bazarov for his opinion about the duel and called him. Bazarov suggested choosing Peter, Nikolai Petrovich’s valet, as his second. Bazarov thought about the real reason for the duel and came to the conclusion that Pavel Petrovich himself loves Fenechka.
The next morning a duel was scheduled. Pavel Petrovich shot first. Then Bazarov shot, he wounded the enemy in the leg. Nikolai Petrovich was told that the reason for the duel was a dispute about politics. The wounded Pavel Petrovich developed a fever. When his brother visited him, Pavel Petrovich said: “ Isn’t it true, Nikolai, that Fenechka has something in common with Nellie?”(Nelly was the same Princess R whom Pavel Petrovich loved in his youth).
Bazarov looked after Pavel Petrovich as a doctor. After a while the doctor arrived, Bazarov got ready to leave. Pavel Petrovich says goodbye to him with dignity and shakes his hand. He also asks Fenechka to come to him and sit with him. Pavel Petrovich asks if Fenechka loves his brother.
Then he passionately asks her to always love Nikolai Petrovich and not cheat on him. Pavel Petrovich knows that it is very difficult to love and not be loved. At this moment Nikolai Petrovich arrives, and Fenechka runs away.
Pavel Petrovich asks his brother to promise him to marry Fenechka. And after the wedding, he himself wants to go abroad and stay there until he dies.
Fathers and Sons. Chapter 25. Summary.
Arkady, meanwhile, communicates with Katya. She noticed that Eugene's influence on Arkady was weakening. Katya thinks this is very good. She doesn’t like Bazarov, she believes that he is a stranger to everyone.
Arkady realizes that he has become attached to the girl. He tells her how special she is to him. Evgeniy came to Odintsova’s estate. He thought that Arkady was interested in Anna Sergeevna.
Fathers and Sons. Chapter 26. Summary.
Arkady proposes to Katya. When Bazarov finds out about this, he praises him. He treats Katya well:
“Some young ladies are considered smart only because they sigh intelligently; and yours will stand up for itself, and stand up so well that it will take you into its hands.”
Fathers and Sons. Chapter 27. Summary.
Bazarov went to his parents. They are happy because they thought that their son would not return. Bazarov's father tries not to interfere with his son. But he, despite all the efforts of his parents, is very bored. Bazarov finds something to do - helps his father treat the peasants. One day he asks his father for a “hell stone” to cauterize the wound. On this day, Bazarov opened a corpse and injured his finger. Bazarov knows that if cadaveric poison has entered the body, no one and nothing will help him.
After some time, Bazarov became very ill. He asks to inform Anna Sergeevna that he is dying.
Odintsova arrived with a German doctor. He said that there was no hope for recovery. Bazarov tells Odintsova that he loved her and asks her to kiss him goodbye. Anna Sergeevna kisses her forehead and gives her water. However, she does not take off her gloves. Bazarov died.
Fathers and Sons. Chapter 28. Summary.
Six months later, two weddings took place in Maryino. Arkady married Katya, and his father married Fenechka.
Pavel Petrovich first went to Moscow, then abroad. After some time, Odintsova also got married - “ not out of love, but out of conviction" - for an intelligent person.
Nikolai Petrovich became a peace mediator; Arkady turned out to be a good owner, his estate began to generate income. Soon he and Katya had a son.
Pavel Petrovich settled in Dresden. Kukshina also went abroad, to Heidelberg, where she began to study architecture. Sitnikov believes that he is continuing the work of Bazarov.
Bazarov's parents often come to their son's grave, which is located in a small rural cemetery. They cry and pray for a long time. They live only with memories of Evgenia.
“Are their prayers, their tears, fruitless? Isn’t love, holy, devoted love, omnipotent? Oh no! No matter how passionate, sinful, rebellious the heart may be hidden in the grave, the flowers growing on it serenely look at us with their innocent eyes: they tell us not only about eternal peace, but about that great peace of indifferent nature; they also talk about eternal reconciliation and endless life..."
Here is a summary of the first 10 chapters of the work “Fathers and Sons” by I.S. Turgenev. A summary is given chapter by chapter to make it easier for you to navigate the events of the novel.
You can also read a brief summary of the chapters and .
Moreover, we give those passages that you need to pay attention to and that are “usually” quoted in Russian literature lessons in an unaltered form.
The novel “Fathers and Sons” was written in the 60s of the 19th century and became very significant for its time.
The actions in the novel take place in the summer of 1859, that is, on the eve of the peasant reform of 1861.
FATHERS AND CHILDREN - summary. Chapters 1-10
Clicking on a chapter will take you to its summary.
- Skip to contents of chapters 11 – 20.
- Skip to contents of chapters 21 – 28.
Fathers and Sons. Chapter 1. Summary.
In this chapter we get acquainted with the history of the Kirsanov family.
“What, Peter? “Can’t you see it yet?” - asked on May 20, 1859, going out without a hat onto the low porch of the inn on the *** highway, a gentleman of about forty years old, in a dusty coat and checkered trousers, asked his servant, a young and cheeky fellow with a whitish down on the chin and small dull eyes.
The servant, in whom everything: the turquoise earring in his ear, the pomaded multi-colored hair, and the polite movements, in a word, everything revealed a man of the newest, improved generation, looked condescendingly along the road and answered: “No way, sir, not to be seen.”
Can't see it? - the master repeated.
“Not to be seen,” the servant answered again. The master sighed and sat down on the bench.
The master, whose name is Nikolai Petrovich Kirsanov, is waiting for the arrival of his son Arkady. Nikolai Petrovich is the owner of two hundred souls. The estate is good, it is located fifteen miles from the inn. Kirsanov's father was a military general born in 1812. He was a rude and semi-literate man who devoted his entire life to military service.
Nikolai Petrovich and his older brother Pavel were born in the south of Russia. Nikolai Petrovich “as a general’s son”... “ not only was he not brave, but he even earned the nickname of a coward».
The boys' mother lived for her own pleasure. She didn't pay too much attention to the children. Nikolai Petrovich, as a general's son, had to go to military service. But he broke his leg and remained lame for the rest of his life.
When Nikolai was eighteen years old, his father took him to St. Petersburg and “ put him in university" My brother ended up in a guards regiment. Nikolai Petrovich and his brother lived together in the same apartment.
In 1835, Nikolai Petrovich left the university as a candidate, and in the same year General Kirsanov, dismissed for an unsuccessful inspection, came to St. Petersburg with his wife to live.
After some time, General Kirsanov died from a blow. Soon his mother, Agathoklea Kuzminichna, also died. It was hard for her to get used to the remote metropolitan life.
Even when his parents were alive, Nikolai Petrovich fell in love with the daughter of the former owner of his apartment, a pretty and well-developed girl. When the mourning for his parents ended, Nikolai Petrovich married her. For some time the young people lived in the city, then settled in the village. A son, Arkady, was born there.
The couple lived very well and quietly: they almost never parted, read together, played four hands on the piano...
But ten years later, in 1847, Nikolai Petrovich’s wife died. He " barely endured this blow, turned gray in a few weeks».
In 1855 Arkady entered the university. Nikolai Petrovich lived with his son for three winters in St. Petersburg, trying to communicate with Arkady’s comrades. Kirsanov was unable to come for the last winter, and now, in May 1859, already gray-haired and slightly hunched over, he is waiting for his son, who, like Nikolai Petrovich once received, received the title of “candidate.”
« A tarantass pulled by three yam horses appeared" Kirsanov with a joyful cry of “Arkasha!” met my son.
Fathers and Sons. Chapter 2. Summary.
In this chapter, we get acquainted with Evgeny Bazarov.
His friend came with Arkady. Arkady told his father that his friend was so kind that he agreed to stay with them. The young man acts somewhat aloof. He responds with some indifference to the joyful greeting of Nikolai Petrovich Kirsanov. Arkady's friend's name is Evgeny Vasilyevich Bazarov.
Evgeny Bazarov Fathers and Sons. Chapter 3. Summary.
Arkady was very happy to see his father. But the young man held back his sincere, almost childish joy. Of course, he still could not hide his feelings and emotions. Therefore, he I wanted to quickly turn the conversation from an excited mood to an ordinary one».
Arkady tells his father that he values his friendship with Bazarov very much. He says that his new friend is studying natural sciences and is going to take the doctor’s exam next year. Arkady asks his father to be friendly with Bazarov.
In turn, Nikolai Petrovich tells his son about what is happening on the estate. He also says that the old nanny, Egorovna, died. Nikolai Petrovich changed the clerk, he decided “ no longer keep freedmen, former servants, or at least not assign them any positions where there is responsibility».
The father embarrassedly tells his son that a girl, Fenechka, lives in his house. Nikolai Petrovich is ashamed of his weakness. But Arkady reacted to this news with indifference. Father and son look around.
The places they passed through could not be called picturesque. The fields, all the fields, stretched all the way to the sky, now rising slightly, then falling again; here and there small forests could be seen, and, dotted with sparse and low bushes, ravines curled, reminding the eye of their own image on the ancient plans of Catherine’s time. There were rivers with dug banks, and tiny ponds with thin dams, and villages with low huts under dark, often with their roofs half torn apart, and crooked threshing sheds with walls woven from brushwood and gaping gates near empty barns, and churches, either brick with the plaster falling off here and there, or wooden with leaning crosses and ruined cemeteries.
Arkady looked sadly at the sad picture. He thought that " This poor region does not amaze you with either contentment or hard work; He can’t stay like this, transformations are necessary... but how to carry them out, how to start?..»
However, sad thoughts could not prevail over the cheerful nature of the young man.
...Spring was taking its toll. Everything around was golden green, everything was wide and softly agitated and shiny under the quiet breath of a warm breeze...
Arkady's mood changed.
A quarter of an hour later, both carriages stopped in front of the porch of a new wooden house, painted gray and covered with a red iron roof. This was Maryino, Novaya Slobodka or, according to the peasant name, Bobyliy Khutor.
Fathers and Sons. Chapter 4. Summary.
The chapter describes dinner at the Kirsanov estate.
Only a girl of about twelve and a young guy, dressed in a gray livery jacket with white coat of arms buttons, came out to meet the gentlemen; this was Pavel Petrovich Kirsanov’s servant. Arkady and his friend were hungry. Nikolai Petrovich ordered dinner to be brought.
“A man of average height, dressed in a dark English suit, a fashionable low tie and patent leather ankle boots, entered the living room,” Pavel Petrovich Kirsanov. He looked about forty-five years old: his short-cropped gray hair shone with a dark shine, like new silver; his face, bilious, but without wrinkles, unusually regular and clean, as if drawn with a thin and light incisor, showed traces of remarkable beauty: his light, black, oblong eyes were especially beautiful.” Pavel Petrovich was glad to see his nephew. Nikolai Petrovich introduced his brother to Bazarov. After Arkady and his friend left, Pavel Petrovich expressed some dissatisfaction with the fact that “this hairy guy” would be visiting their house.
At dinner the atmosphere was quite calm. Nikolai Petrovich talked about village life, Arkady - about life in St. Petersburg. After dinner, Bazarov gives his characterization to Nikolai Petrovich and Pavel Petrovich. He speaks quite approvingly of the first one, calling him a good-natured man. Pavel Petrovich received a more caustic assessment. Bazarov calls him an eccentric, because in the village he walks around like such a dandy.
Fathers and Sons. Chapter 5. Summary.
The next day, Evgeny Bazarov woke up very early, everyone was still sleeping. He left the house and ordered the local boys to catch him frogs. Evgeny Bazarov conducts experiments on frogs. Bazarov communicates with those around him with some contempt. But despite this, he inspires trust and respect, especially among people below him on the social ladder.
Arkady is surprised that Fenechka was not present at the table. Arkady asks his father if he embarrassed the girl. The young man specifically goes to meet her.
After meeting, Arkady learned that he had a little brother. Arkady greeted this news with joy.
In a conversation with Pavel Petrovich, Arkady evaluates his friend Bazarov. He calls him "nihilist" and explains what it means.
According to Arkady, a nihilist can be called someone who does not bow to any authority; takes nothing for granted - neither opinions, nor principles. Pavel Petrovich is very surprised by this. He does not understand how one can live without principles.
Suddenly Fenechka appears, a young attractive woman who looks to be about twenty-three years old. She " all white and soft, with dark hair and eyes, red and childishly plump lips and tender hands" Soon Bazarov arrives, he has a bag of frogs with him. Uncle Arkady asks Bazarov a question: what is he going to do with the frogs, eat them or breed them? But Evgeny Bazarov lets the ridicule fall on deaf ears. He says that he needs frogs for experiments. When Pavel Petrovich finds out that Bazarov is engaged in the natural sciences, he asks if he is not following the example of the Germans, because they were the ones who “succeeded greatly in this.” Bazarov agrees that the authority of the Germans is very high; he calls them teachers. Pavel Petrovich is perplexed why he has a higher opinion of German scientists than of Russians. But Bazarov does not consider it necessary to explain his position.
Fathers and Sons. Chapter 6. Summary.
Pavel Petrovich asks Bazarov if he really does not recognize any authorities. Bazarov believes that there is no need to recognize authorities; there is also no need to believe anything: “ But why would I acknowledge them? And what will I believe? They'll tell me the case, I'll agree, that's all" This position seems incomprehensible and incorrect to Pavel Petrovich.
Pavel Petrovich talks about materialists, remembers Goethe and Schiller. He speaks with some condemnation about " chemists and materialists" But Bazarov does not agree with him. Evgeniy believes that a chemist is much more useful than any poet. This opinion greatly surprises Pavel Petrovich. He directly asks Bazarov if he recognizes art. He answers sharply: “ The art of making money, or no more hemorrhoids!»
Pavel Petrovich asks Bazarov if this means that he believes in one science. Bazarov answers:
I have already reported to you that I don’t believe in anything; and what is science - science in general? There are sciences, just as there are crafts and titles; and science does not exist at all.
Bazarov's answers insult and shock Pavel Petrovich. After some time, Arkady reproaches Bazarov for speaking so harshly to his uncle. But Eugene believes that there is no point in indulging in the whims of the district aristocrats. Arkady asks his friend to be more lenient towards his uncle and tells the story of Pavel Petrovich. According to Arkady, Pavel Petrovich should be pitied, not condemned, and even more so, one should not mock him.
Fathers and Sons. Chapter 7. Summary.
The seventh chapter tells the story of Pavel Petrovich Kirsanov.
Pavel Petrovich received a good upbringing and in his youth was distinguished by rare beauty. Women paid attention to him; he was self-confident and persistent. At twenty-eight years old, he was already a captain. Pavel Petrovich had enormous opportunities. But suddenly he met Princess R. The princess’s character was very, very strange. She had a reputation as a frivolous coquette. However, the woman did not find peace anywhere, she often cried and prayed.
In a word, the princess’s behavior betrayed her impulsive and exalted nature. Pavel Petrovich met her at a ball. She made a strong impression on Kirsanov, the young man fell madly in love with her. The princess seemed a mystery to him, which is why he gave her a ring with a sphinx. Pavel Petrovich said that she herself looked like a sphinx, since he could not solve her.
Despite all the merits of Pavel Kirsanov, the princess soon became tired of him. This was a heavy blow for a man accustomed to quick and easy victories. Pavel Petrovich seemed to have lost his mind. He retired, gave up his career, despite the brilliant opportunities that opened before him. Now all he did was follow the princess. Of course, she chased away the persistent and annoying gentleman.
Sooner or later, Pavel Petrovich realized that they had no future, but he could not return to his former life. After love disappointment, Pavel Petrovich no longer thought about marriage; ten years of his life passed like a dream, empty, unadorned by anything.
One day Pavel Petrovich learned about the death of the princess. She died, and before her death she almost went crazy. Kirsanov received a posthumous message from the princess, and his ring was there.
Pavel Petrovich had no choice but to live with his brother. They were both unhappy. Nikolai Petrovich lost his beloved wife, and Pavel Petrovich lost “his memories.”
However, Nikolai Petrovich was still happier, because he had a son, Arkady, and he also had the realization that his life was not in vain.
Lonely Pavel Petrovich had no such thoughts. There was no longer any hope in his life. When Bazarov heard this story, he said that Pavel Petrovich was not worthy of pity. According to Bazarov, a person should not bet his whole life “ on the map of female love" Bazarov did not have the most flattering idea about Pavel Petrovich, so any of Arkady’s arguments seem unconvincing to him. Bazarov's speech is cynical and cruel. However, one cannot help but admit that on some issues he is right. However, Arkady does not agree with him. It is not difficult to understand that Arkady and his friend are completely different people.
Fathers and Sons. Chapter 8. Summary
Meanwhile, Pavel Petrovich visits Fenechka and asks to see the child. The girl is embarrassed, because she doesn’t really like the presence of Pavel Petrovich. Then Nikolai Petrovich comes, and his brother immediately disappears. Pavel Petrovich returns to his office.
How did Nikolai Petrovich meet Fenechka, who became so close to him? The acquaintance happened three years ago. Kirsanov spent the night in a county town at an inn. Nikolai Petrovich met the owner; Fenechka was her daughter.
Kirsanov invited the owner of the inn to be his housekeeper. One day something bad happened - a spark from the stove got into Fenichka’s eye. Her mother turned to Nikolai Petrovich for help. Kirsanov treated the girl and fell in love with her. After some time, Fenichka became orphaned and had nowhere to go.
Fathers and Sons. Chapter 9. Summary
While walking, Fenechka meets Bazarov. He helps a baby who is teething. Fenechka feels affection for Bazarov.
Arkady talks a lot with his friend. Evgeniy says that things are not going well at Kirsanov’s household. According to Bazarov, the manager “ either a fool or a rogue»; « workers look like notorious sloths" Bazarov believes that Nikolai Petrovich is easy for peasants " will cheat».
Arkady says that Bazarov has a very bad opinion of Russians. Bazarov does not deny this:
“The only good thing about a Russian person is that he has a very bad opinion of himself.”
In general, Bazarov gives everyone and everything very interesting characteristics. He says: " It is important that two and two are four, and the rest is all nonsense" Arkady asks him: “ And nature is trifles?”, to which Bazarov replies:
“And nature is trifle in the sense in which you understand it. Nature is not a temple, but a workshop, and man is a worker in it.”
Of course, Arkady does not always agree with the opinion of his friend, but he cannot help but listen to him. When Bazarov finds out that Nikolai Petrovich plays the cello, it makes him smile. Bazarov believes that the venerable father of the family should not play the cello, that this is too frivolous an activity.
Fathers and Sons. Chapter 10. Summary.
Bazarov stays with the Kirsanovs for a very long time. The servants begin to respect him. Arkady's father, Nikolai Petrovich, tries to communicate less with Bazarov, as he is a little afraid of him. Pavel Petrovich hates Bazarov. Evgeny himself treats everyone with condescending contempt. One day Bazarov told Arkady that his father " good guy", But " his song is finished" Thus, Bazarov wanted to say that Nikolai Petrovich is not capable of any sensible actions. Bazarov told Arkady that his father reads Pushkin. According to Evgeniy himself, one should read not this “nonsense”, but something useful, so he recommends that Arkady give his father “ Matter and force» Buchner. Nikolai Petrovich heard this conversation and was very offended. He told his brother about this.
Pavel Petrovich is furious, he speaks of his hatred of Bazarov. Pavel Petrovich considers him a charlatan who has not gone far in science. But Nikolai Petrovich objects. He considers Bazarov smart and knowledgeable. In the evening, at the table, a major quarrel occurs between Bazarov and Pavel Petrovich. Bazarov said about the neighboring landowner that he was “rubbish, an aristocrat.” This caused indignation in Pavel Petrovich. He expressed to Bazarov that an aristocrat has a developed sense of self-esteem and self-respect. And without aristocrats there is no "no sound basis for the public good" Bazarov listens skeptically to Pavel Petrovich’s speech. He says that aristocrats sit idly by and therefore do not bring any benefit to society.
Pavel Petrovich wants to know why nihilists are useful. Bazarov says that nihilists deny everything:
“In these times, the most useful thing is denial - we deny.”
Hearing this, Pavel Petrovich says that it is necessary not only to destroy, but also to build. Bazarov objects: “ This is no longer our business. First you need to clear the place».
The dispute also turns to the Russian people. Pavel Petrovich says that Bazarov despises him. He agrees with this and says that the Russian people, with their stupidity and lack of education, cannot but be despised.
The conversation turns out to be very serious. Various issues were raised. Finally, Pavel Petrovich said that breaking is not building. After this, Arkady joined the conversation. He said that they break precisely because they are force, and force does not give an account of its actions. The angry Pavel Petrovich said that there is strength in both the wild Kalmyk and the Mongol, and enlightened people should value civilization.
Bazarov proposed to name some “resolutions” that would not deserve complete and unconditional denial. Pavel Petrovich gave not the most successful examples.
The conversation left an unpleasant aftertaste for the Kirsanov brothers.
Go to summary of chapters 11-20.
The most important feature of the amazing talent of I.S. Turgenev - a keen sense of his time, which is the best test for an artist. The images he created continue to live, but in another world, the name of which is the grateful memory of descendants who learned love, dreams and wisdom from the writer.
The clash of two political forces, liberal nobles and raznochintsy revolutionaries, found artistic expression in a new work, which was created during a difficult period of social confrontation.
The idea for “Fathers and Sons” is the result of communication with the staff of the Sovremennik magazine, where the writer worked for a long time. The writer had a hard time leaving the magazine, because the memory of Belinsky was connected with him. The articles of Dobrolyubov, with whom Ivan Sergeevich constantly argued and sometimes disagreed, served as a real basis for depicting ideological differences. The radically minded young man was not on the side of gradual reforms, like the author of Fathers and Sons, but firmly believed in the path of revolutionary transformation of Russia. The editor of the magazine, Nikolai Nekrasov, supported this point of view, so the classics of fiction - Tolstoy and Turgenev - left the editorial office.
The first sketches for the future novel were made at the end of July 1860 on the English Isle of Wight. The image of Bazarov was defined by the author as the character of a self-confident, hard-working, nihilist person who does not recognize compromises or authorities. While working on the novel, Turgenev involuntarily develops sympathy for his character. In this he is helped by the diary of the main character, which is kept by the writer himself.
In May 1861, the writer returned from Paris to his Spasskoye estate and made his last entry in the manuscripts. In February 1862, the novel was published in the Russian Bulletin.
Main problems
After reading the novel, you understand its true value, created by the “genius of proportion” (D. Merezhkovsky). What did Turgenev love? What did you doubt? What did you dream about?
- Central to the book is the moral problem of intergenerational relationships. "Fathers" or "children"? The fate of everyone is connected with the search for an answer to the question: what is the meaning of life? For new people it lies in work, but the old guard sees it in reasoning and contemplation, because crowds of peasants work for them. In this fundamental position there is a place for irreconcilable conflict: fathers and children live differently. In this discrepancy we see the problem of misunderstanding of opposites. The antagonists cannot and do not want to accept each other, this impasse is especially evident in the relationship between Pavel Kirsanov and Evgeny Bazarov.
- The problem of moral choice is also acute: on whose side is the truth? Turgenev believed that the past cannot be denied, because only thanks to it the future is built. In the image of Bazarov, he expressed the need to preserve the continuity of generations. The hero is unhappy because he is lonely and understood, because he himself did not strive for anyone and did not want to understand. However, changes, whether people of the past like it or not, will still come, and we must be prepared for them. This is evidenced by the ironic image of Pavel Kirsanov, who lost his sense of reality while putting on ceremonial tailcoats in the village. The writer calls for a sensitive response to changes and trying to understand them, and not indiscriminately criticize, like Uncle Arkady. Thus, the solution to the problem lies in the tolerant attitude of different people towards each other and an attempt to understand the opposite life concept. In this sense, the position of Nikolai Kirsanov, who was tolerant of new trends and was never in a hurry to judge them, won. His son also found a compromise solution.
- However, the author made it clear that there is a high purpose behind Bazarov’s tragedy. It is precisely such desperate and self-confident pioneers who pave the way forward for the world, so the problem of recognizing this mission in society also occupies an important place. Evgeniy repents on his deathbed that he feels useless, this realization destroys him, but he could have become a great scientist or a skilled doctor. But the cruel mores of the conservative world are pushing him out, because they feel threatened by him.
- The problems of the “new” people, the diverse intelligentsia, and difficult relationships in society, with parents, and in the family are also obvious. The commoners do not have profitable estates and a position in society, so they are forced to work and become embittered when they see social injustice: they work hard for a piece of bread, while the nobles, stupid and mediocre, do nothing and occupy all the upper floors of the social hierarchy, where the elevator simply does not reach . Hence the revolutionary sentiments and the moral crisis of an entire generation.
- Problems of eternal human values: love, friendship, art, attitude to nature. Turgenev knew how to reveal the depths of human character in love, to test the true essence of a person with love. But not everyone passes this test; an example of this is Bazarov, who breaks down under the onslaught of feeling.
All the interests and plans of the writer were entirely focused on the most important tasks of the time, moving towards the most pressing problems of everyday life.
Characteristics of the characters in the novel
Evgeny Vasilievich Bazarov- comes from the people. Son of a regimental doctor. My grandfather on my father’s side “plowed the land.” Evgeniy makes his own way in life and receives a good education. Therefore, the hero is careless in clothes and manners; no one raised him. Bazarov is a representative of the new revolutionary-democratic generation, whose task is to destroy the old way of life and fight against those who hinder social development. A complex man, doubtful, but proud and adamant. Evgeniy Vasilyevich is very vague about how to correct society. Denies the old world, accepts only what is confirmed by practice.
- The writer portrayed in Bazarov the type of young man who believes exclusively in scientific activity and denies religion. The hero has a deep interest in natural sciences. From childhood, his parents instilled in him a love of work.
- He condemns the people for illiteracy and ignorance, but is proud of his origin. Bazarov's views and beliefs do not find like-minded people. Sitnikov, a talker and phrase-monger, and the “emancipated” Kukshina are worthless “followers”.
- A soul unknown to him is rushing about in Evgeny Vasilyevich. What should a physiologist and anatomist do with it? It is not visible under a microscope. But the soul hurts, although it – a scientific fact – does not exist!
- Turgenev spends most of the novel exploring the “temptations” of his hero. He torments him with the love of old people - his parents - what to do with them? What about love for Odintsova? The principles are in no way compatible with life, with the living movements of people. What remains for Bazarov? Just die. Death is his final test. He accepts her heroically, does not console himself with the spells of a materialist, but calls his beloved.
- The spirit conquers the enraged mind, overcomes the errors of the schemes and postulates of the new teaching.
- Kirsanov believes that respecting yourself means taking care of your appearance and never losing your dignity, even in the village. He organizes his daily routine in the English manner.
- Pavel Petrovich retired, indulging in love experiences. This decision of his became a “retirement” from life. Love does not bring joy to a person if he lives only by its interests and whims.
- The hero is guided by principles taken “on faith”, corresponding to his position as a gentleman - a serf owner. The Russian people are honored for their patriarchy and obedience.
- In relation to a woman, strength and passion of feelings are manifested, but he does not understand them.
- Pavel Petrovich is indifferent to nature. Denial of her beauty speaks of his spiritual limitations.
- This man is deeply unhappy.
- The characteristic features of the character are gentleness and humility. The hero's intelligence evokes sympathy and respect. Nikolai Petrovich is a romantic at heart, loves music, recites poetry.
- He is an opponent of nihilism and tries to smooth out any emerging disagreements. Lives in accordance with his heart and conscience.
- Subsequently, he became a zealous owner and started a family.
- “A nice fellow,” but “a soft, liberal gentleman,” Bazarov says about him.
- All the Kirsanovs are “more children of events than fathers of their own actions.”
Pavel Petrovich Kirsanov - bearer of noble culture. Bazarov is disgusted by Pavel Petrovich’s “starched collars” and “long nails”. But the hero’s aristocratic manners are an internal weakness, a secret consciousness of his inferiority.
Nikolai Petrovich Kirsanov- Arkady's father and Pavel Petrovich's brother. He failed to make a military career, but he did not despair and entered the university. After the death of his wife, he devoted himself to his son and the improvement of the estate.
Arkady Nikolaevich Kirsanov- a person who is not independent, deprived of his life principles. He completely obeys his friend. He joined Bazarov only because of his youthful enthusiasm, since he did not have his own views, so in the finale there was a break between them.
Odintsova Anna Sergeevna- an “element” “related” to Bazarov’s personality. On what basis can this conclusion be made? The firmness of her outlook on life, “proud loneliness, intelligence - make her “close” to the main character of the novel. She, like Evgeny, sacrificed personal happiness, so her heart is cold and fearful of feelings. She herself trampled on them by marrying for convenience.
Conflict between "fathers" and "children"
Conflict – “clash”, “serious disagreement”, “dispute”. To say that these concepts have only a “negative connotation” means to completely misunderstand the processes of social development. “Truth is born in dispute” - this axiom can be considered a “key” that lifts the curtain on the problems posed by Turgenev in the novel.
Disputes are the main compositional device that allows the reader to determine his point of view and take a certain position in his views on a particular social phenomenon, area of development, nature, art, moral concepts. Using the “technique of debate” between “youth” and “old age,” the author affirms the idea that life does not stand still, it is multifaceted and multifaceted.
The conflict between “fathers” and “children” will never be resolved; it can be described as a “constant”. However, it is the conflict of generations that is the engine of development of everything on earth. On the pages of the novel there is a heated debate caused by the struggle of revolutionary democratic forces with the liberal nobility.
Main topics
Turgenev managed to saturate the novel with progressive thought: protest against violence, hatred of legalized slavery, pain for the suffering of the people, the desire to found their happiness.
The main themes in the novel “Fathers and Sons”:
- Ideological contradictions of the intelligentsia during the preparation of the reform on the abolition of serfdom;
- “Fathers” and “sons”: relationships between generations and the theme of family;
- A “new” type of person at the turn of two eras;
- Immense love for the homeland, parents, woman;
- Human and nature. The world around us: workshop or temple?
What is the point of the book?
Turgenev’s work sounds an alarming alarm bell over all of Russia, calling on fellow citizens to unite, sanity, and fruitful activity for the good of the Motherland.
The book explains to us not only the past, but also the present day, reminds us of eternal values. The title of the novel does not mean the older and younger generations, not family relationships, but people of new and old views. “Fathers and Sons” is valuable not only as an illustration of history; the work touches on many moral issues.
The basis of the existence of the human race is the family, where everyone has their own responsibilities: the elders (“fathers”) look after the younger ones (“children”), pass on to them the experience and traditions accumulated by their ancestors, and instill moral feelings in them; the younger ones honor adults, adopt from them everything important and best that is necessary for the formation of a person of a new formation. However, their task is also the creation of fundamental innovations, impossible without some denial of past misconceptions. The harmony of the world order lies in the fact that these “connections” are not broken, but not in the fact that everything remains the old fashioned way.
The book has great educational value. Reading it at the time of forming your character means thinking about important life problems. “Fathers and Sons” teaches a serious attitude towards the world, an active position, and patriotism. They teach from a young age to develop strong principles, engaging in self-education, but at the same time honor the memory of their ancestors, even if it does not always turn out to be right.
Criticism about the novel
- After the publication of Fathers and Sons, a fierce controversy erupted. M.A. Antonovich in the Sovremennik magazine interpreted the novel as a “merciless” and “destructive criticism of the younger generation.”
- D. Pisarev in “Russian Word” highly appreciated the work and the image of a nihilist created by the master. The critic emphasized the tragedy of character and noted the firmness of a person who does not retreat from trials. He agrees with other writers of criticism that the “new” people may cause resentment, but it is impossible to deny them “sincerity.” The appearance of Bazarov in Russian literature is a new step in highlighting the social and public life of the country.
Can you agree with the critic on everything? Probably no. He calls Pavel Petrovich “a small-sized Pechorin.” But the dispute between the two characters gives reason to doubt this. Pisarev claims that Turgenev does not sympathize with any of his heroes. The writer considers Bazarov his “favorite child.”
What is "nihilism"?
For the first time, the word “nihilist” is heard in the novel from the lips of Arkady and immediately attracts attention. However, the concept of “nihilist” is in no way connected with Kirsanov Jr.
The word “nihilist” was taken by Turgenev from N. Dobrolyubov’s review of a book by the Kazan philosopher, conservative professor V. Bervy. However, Dobrolyubov interpreted it in a positive sense and assigned it to the younger generation. The word was introduced into widespread use by Ivan Sergeevich, which became synonymous with the word “revolutionary.”
The “nihilist” in the novel is Bazarov, who does not recognize authorities and denies everything. The writer did not accept the extremes of nihilism, caricaturing Kukshina and Sitnikov, but sympathized with the main character.
Evgeny Vasilyevich Bazarov still teaches us about his fate. Every person has a unique spiritual image, whether he is a nihilist or a simple layman. Respect and reverence for another person consists of respect for the fact that in him there is the same secret flicker of a living soul that is in you.
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Title page of the second edition (Leipzig, Germany, 1880) |
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The novel became iconic for its time, and the image of the main character Evgeniy Bazarov was perceived by young people as an example to follow. Ideals such as uncompromisingness, lack of admiration for authorities and old truths, the priority of the useful over the beautiful were accepted by the people of that time and were reflected in Bazarov’s worldview.
Plot
The actions in the novel take place in the summer of 1859, that is, on the eve of the peasant reform of 1861.
The meaning of the ending:
Turgenev showed the greatness of Bazarov during his illness, in the face of death. In the speech of the dying man there is pain from the consciousness of the imminent inevitable end. Each remark addressed to Odintsova is a clot of spiritual suffering: “Look at what an ugly sight: the worm is half crushed, and is still bristling. And I also thought: I’ll screw up a lot of things, I won’t die, no matter what! There is a task, because I am a giant!.. Russia needs me... No, apparently, I am not needed. And who is needed?” Knowing that he will die, he consoles his parents, shows sensitivity to his mother, hiding from her the danger that threatens him, and makes a dying request to Odintsova to take care of the old people: “After all, people like them cannot be found in your big world during the day. ..” The courage and steadfastness of his materialistic and atheistic views were manifested in his refusal to confess when, yielding to the pleas of his parents, he agreed to take communion, but only in an unconscious state, when a person is not responsible for his actions. Pisarev noted that in the face of death, “Bazarov becomes better, more humane, which is proof of the integrity, completeness and natural richness of nature.” Not having time to realize himself in life, Bazarov only in the face of death gets rid of his intolerance and for the first time truly feels that real life is much wider and more diverse than his ideas about it. This is the main meaning of the ending. Turgenev himself wrote about this:
“I dreamed of a gloomy, wild, large figure, half grown out of the soil, strong, evil, honest - yet doomed to death - because it still stands on the threshold of the future.”
Main characters
Other heroes
- Dunyasha- maid under Fenechka.
- Victor Sitnikov- an acquaintance of Bazarov and Arkady, an adherent of nihilism.
- Kukshina- an acquaintance of Sitnikov, who, like him, is a pseudo-adherent of nihilism.
- Peter- servant of the Kirsanovs.
- Princess R. (Nelly)- beloved P.P. Kirsanov
- Matvey Ilyich Kolyazin- official in the City ***
Film adaptations of the novel
- - Fathers and Sons (dir. Adolf Bergunker, Natalya Rashevskaya)
- - Fathers and Sons (dir. Alina Kazmina, Evgeny Simonov)
- - Fathers and Sons (dir. Vyacheslav Nikiforov)
Notes
Links
| Ivan Sergeevich Turgenev | |
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Lack of money Where it is thin, there it is torn Freeloader Breakfast at the leader Bachelor A month in the village Provintsialka |
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| Nihilism | ||
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| Directions | Mereological nihilism Metaphysical nihilism ( English) · Epistemological nihilism · Moral nihilism ( | |
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