Best Russian Short Stories

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

—

Title

Best Russian Short Stories

Language

en

Book source

Global Grey

Description max 80 words

This collection showcases the simplicity and naturalness of Russian literature, featuring nineteen short stories by masters like Tolstoy, Chekhov, and Dostoevsky. The volume explores deep sympathy for the disinherited, humanitarian ideals, and the clash between old traditions and new social movements, offering a true mirror of Russian life and soul.

Summary up to 500 words

Best Russian Short Stories, compiled by various authors and introduced with a 1917 preface, offers a profound exploration of the evolution from romanticism to realism in Russian literature. The introduction praises the democratic spirit and veraciousness of Russian writers, who portray the poor without theatrical effect, treating them as equals rather than objects of pity or caricature. This collection contrasts the romanticism of Pushkin's 'The Queen of Spades' with the deep sympathy for the disinherited found in Gogol's 'The Cloak,' marking the transition to a characteristically Russian style. The anthology delves into the psychological depths of human suffering through Dostoevsky's 'The Christmas Tree And The Wedding' and presents dramatic dialogues on doubt and truth in Tolstoy's 'God Sees The Truth, But Waits.' Chekhov's contributions, including 'The Bet' and 'Vanka,' capture the quiet tragedies of everyday life and social inequality, while Garshin's 'The Signal' depicts the harsh realities of war and poverty through the eyes of a track-walker. The collection also features satirical and revolutionary themes, as seen in Saltykov's 'How A Muzhik Fed Two Officials' and Kuprin's 'The Outrage,' which denounce police brutality and mob violence during pogroms. Through these varied voices, the book illustrates the development of Russian fiction, emphasizing a profound concern for human welfare and social justice. The preface highlights that Russian authors view literature as a true mirror of life and a service to society, subordinating artistic form to humanitarian ideals and fidelity to reality. From the early romanticists to the revolutionary writers of the late nineteenth century, the anthology demonstrates a passionate search for improving humanity's lot, reflecting the serious intellectual engagement of the Russian people who demand that fiction be of service to life.

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4.2/5

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Categories

• Fiction
• Russian Literature