The Father and Sons of Nihilism: Turgenev's Proto-Nihilism
Turgenev stands as an example of the “possession” of Russian by central European post-protestant ideologies, namely Marxism or Eschatological Secularism, and his work exhibit these core questions being wrestled by his contemporaries including Tolstoy, Gogol, Chekhov and Dostoevsky, all of whom he knew personally and corresponded with extensively. Historically, there have been three major translations of Turgenev’s major works, but very few of his minor works:
Constance Garnett (1861-1946):
Garnett's translations in the late 19th and early 20th centuries introduced Turgenev (along with Dostoevsky, Tolstoy, and Chekhov) to the English-speaking world, although there had already been extensive translations of all of these into German in their lifetimes. Her translations are fluid and have a distinctly Victorian English flavor which makes them easily accessible for many readers. Her versions of Turgenev’s "Fathers and Sons" and "A Month in the Country" remain widely read.
Richard Freeborn:
Freeborn's translations are modern and are considered closer to Turgenev's original prose in terms of capturing the rhythm and subtleties. His translations are accompanied by introductions and notes that provide valuable context and background. This is a more rigid, literal translation suitable for academics, but is difficult to read.
Isaiah Berlin (1909-1997):
A famous philosopher and historian of ideas, Berlin, provided a translation of Turgenev's "First Love" but did not touch his larger works. Berlin's deep understanding of Russian intellectual history offers a unique lens through which Turgenev's work can be understood.
NLP’s new set of translations, published October 2023, provide literal but readable manuscripts in modern American English, vice the historic British-English translations which make an already difficult text even more difficult to read. The following are available from NLP as separate
e translations:
Home of the Gentry
Often translated as "A Nest of Gentlefolk", "Home of the Gentry", "Liza" or "Nobel Nest" (Дворянское гнездо in Russian), Home of the Gentry was written between 1856-1858. This novel portrays the struggle of the protagonist, Lavretsky, who returns to Russia after a failed marriage to find new love, only to be confronted by the past.
The Day Before
"Предшественный день" ("The Day Before") is a play written by Turgenev that reflects the characteristics of Russian society and political transformations in the 1840s. Set against the backdrop of political upheaval, the work explores themes of love, honor, and personal sacrifices amidst the chaos of impending revolution.
Fathers and Sons
This edition contains an essay written by Turgenev titled "Regarding "Fathers and Sons"" which details the reception of the book and responses to the criticism of it. In this essay, he discusses the Slavophiles, the poor reception the novel had in Germany, and the treatment of the Russian language.
"Fathers and Sons" Отцы и дети (1860—1861) - is perhaps Turgenev's most renowned work. The novel introduces the character of Bazarov, a nihilist, and delves into the ideological divide between the older and younger generation in Russia. This work introduced the world to the concept of Nihilism (a term coined by Turgenev) and foreshadows great works of Russian literature such as Crime and Punishment
The central character of Fathers and Sons, Eugene Bazarov, often hailed as the "first Bolshevik" in Russian literature, became a symbol of both praise and ridicule, alternately seen as the embodiment of the "new men" of the 1860s. Turgenev's novel explored the clash between the older generation, resistant to change, and the nihilistic youth. Through the character of Bazarov, Turgenev created a quintessential representation of the mid-nineteenth-century nihilist. Fathers and Sons is set in the tumultuous six years between Russia's defeat in the Crimean War and the emancipation of the serfs.
The polarizing reception of the novel, marked by hostile reactions, forced Turgenev to make the difficult decision to leave Russia. As a result, he lost a significant part of his readership. At the time, many radical critics, with the exception of Dimitri Pisarev, did not take Fathers and Sons seriously. After the relative critical disappointment of this masterpiece, Turgenev became discouraged and consequently produced fewer works.
An Unhappy Girl
"An Unhappy Girl" (also known as "Neschastnaya" or "The Unfortunate" in some translations) is a novella written by Ivan Turgenev. First published in 1868, the story offers a glimpse into the life of Susanna, a woman of Jewish descent who, because of her roots, is cast adrift in the Russian social structure. The narrative unfolds from the perspective of a distant observer, Maximov, who becomes inadvertently involved in Susanna's life. Turgenev weaves themes of love, alienation and tragedy against the backdrop of Russia's strong social and religious prejudices. This poignant story not only explores the personal torment of the titular "unhappy girl", but also casts a critical eye on the deeply rooted prejudices and indifference of the society of his time.
First Love
"First Love" (Первая любовь) is a novella that recounts the story of a 16-year-old boy's infatuation with a beautiful woman, Zinaida, only to discover a heartbreaking secret.
Punin and Baburin
"Punin and Baburin" (Пунин и Бабурин) showcases the vast socio-political changes sweeping through Russia. Through the intergenerational bond between the titular characters, Turgenev offers insights into evolving ideologies.
After Death
"Clara Militch", translated more literally as "After Death" (После смерти) revolves around the sudden demise of a young actress and the protagonist's obsession with her post-mortem. The story delves into themes of obsession, love, and the afterlife.
Two Friends
Two Friends (Два приятеля) is an 1853 story by Turgenev. "Two Friends" illustrates Turgenev's skill in weaving narratives about friendship, morality and social contexts. The story revolves around the relationship between the titular two friends, Sergey and Nikolay, who embody different values and perspectives. Their friendship is tested through various ordeals, particularly at the crossroads of personal, moral and social dilemmas. Turgenev uses their friendship to explore themes of morality, loyalty and the complexity of human relationships against the backdrop of contemporary Russian social norms and expectations.
Diary of an Unnecessary Man
Sometimes translated as "Diary of a Superfluous Man" or "Diary of an Extra Man" (Дневник лишнего человека), Diary of an Unnecessary Man is a poignant novella exploring the reflections and regrets of a dying man, Chulkaturin, who sees himself as 'superfluous' to society. This theme of the 'superfluous man' is recurrent in Russian literature.
The Dualist
The Dualist (sometimes translated literally as "Brether" (Бретёр in Russia) is an 1846 story by Turgenev. The narrative is about a regiment of cuirassiers stationed in the village of Kirilovo and the social life that unfolds in that village. The village is an island in a sea of ploughed, black earth fields. The owner of the manor house where the regiment is quartered lives partly in Petersburg and partly abroad, and has completely forgotten his estate. The social life of the officers is typical: some are good, some are bad. One officer, Avdey Ivanovich Lutchkov, has a reputation as a duellist. A young cornet, Fyodor Fedorovitch Kister, joins the regiment. He is a Russian nobleman of German descent, very fair-haired and very modest, cultured and well-read. Interesting, Tolstoy once challenged Turgenev to a duel, but later rescinded the challenge.
Asya
Asya (Ася) is a 1857 novella by Turgenev that depicts the love story between the narrator and a young girl named Asya. The story is set in the German town of Baden-Baden and touches on themes of missed opportunities and tragic love.
Petushkov
"Петушков" (often translated to "Petushkov" or "Pyetushkov" in English) is a novella written by Ivan Sergeyevich Turgenev. This work was first published in 1847 and is lesser-known compared to Turgenev's other works, such as "Fathers and Sons" or "A Month in the Country."
"Petushkov" is a work that offers insights into the lives, attitudes, and interpersonal dynamics of the Russian aristocracy and bourgeoisie. The titular character, Pyetushkov, is portrayed as a somewhat inconsequential man, yet the narrative details his life and interactions in a way that illuminates various facets of the society in which he lives.
This story, like many of Turgenev's works, explores themes of disillusionment, unrequited love, and the contrast between superficial social rituals and deeper, unspoken human desires and disappointments. Through the lens of Pyetushkov's somewhat mundane and pathetic existence, Turgenev explores and critiques the social norms and expectations of his contemporary Russia, offering the reader a contemplative and at times melancholy exploration of existence within this social context. The portrayal of Pyetushkov and his circumstances provide a microcosm through which Turgenev explores themes of love, disappointment and existential ennui within the Russian middle class.
The Inn
"Постоялый двор" (often translated into English as "The Inn" or "An Inn") is a short story written by Ivan Turgenev. This work is part of the collection "A Month in the Country," which explores the interactions and dynamics among various members of the Russian society. "The Inn" is often appreciated for Turgenev's characteristic insight into human nature and the societal norms of his era. Through the context of the inn and the characters within it, the author explores themes such as loneliness, the quest for meaning in life, and the delicate, sometimes ephemeral connections between individuals.
The environment of the inn provides a microcosm where characters from various walks of life intersect, providing a fertile ground for the exploration of their relationships, ambitions, and struggles. Turgenev navigates through the complexities of these interpersonal dynamics, expertly weaving a narrative that illuminates the multifaceted nature of human interactions and the underlying desires, regrets, and reconciliations that permeate their lives.
Memories of Belinsky
"Воспоминания о Белинском" ("Memories of Belinsky" or "Recollections of Belinsky" in English) is not a work of fiction by Ivan Turgenev, but rather a collection of memories about the famous Russian literary critic Vissarion Belinsky. It provides an insight into Belinsky's personality, beliefs and interactions within the literary circles of his time.
Vissarion Belinsky was a prominent intellectual and literary critic in Russia, widely recognised for his influence on Russian literature and his commitment to social and political reform. He was known for his passionate belief in the role of literature as a tool for social change and progress. His philosophy and criticism had a significant impact on the development of Russian literature, particularly in promoting the ideals of social justice and attacking autocracy and feudalism through literary and critical works.
Turgenev's "Memories of Belinsky" provides a personal and revealing insight into Belinsky's life and intellectual world, not only portraying the critic himself, but also offering a glimpse into the vibrant and often tumultuous intellectual and literary climate of mid-19th century Russia. Turgenev, himself a major figure on the Russian literary scene, presents an intimate account of the experiences, conversations and reflections he shared with Belinsky. It's a valuable text for understanding the Russian literary and intellectual environment of the period.
Ghosts
"Призраки" (translated as "Phantoms" or "Apparitions" or"Ghosts") is a work by Ivan Turgenev that explores themes of memory, loss and the supernatural. Written in a style that combines psychological depth and ethereal mystery, Turgenev provides a narrative that goes beyond mere ghost stories, integrating psychological, emotional and existential aspects into the supernatural events. Turgenev explores a Necrology- the connection between the living and the dead, where the apparitions may symbolise unfulfilled desires, unresolved issues or unattained peace. The stories serve not only as ghost stories, but also as explorations of the human psyche, revealing the characters' inner fears, guilt and unresolved emotions. The ghosts in his stories manifest buried or repressed emotions and memories, weaving a complex narrative that combines the eerie atmosphere of supernatural tales with profound, often melancholic reflections on life, death and the human soul. His exploration of the supernatural is not merely for the thrill of the ghostly, but is deeply intertwined with his exploration of the emotional and moral realms of human existence.
Turgenev actually wrote to Dostoevsky about this novella Ghosts in a letter dated May 25th, 1863:
"Dear Fyodor Mikhailovich, I have not written to you for so long because I wanted to say something positive to you. Now I can inform you that I have begun to rewrite a thing - I don't know what to call it - at any rate not a story - rather a fantasy, under the title: "Ghosts". - It has long been in my mind, but I have long for it - and for nothing - did not take it. I am afraid, as if it would not seem too unmodern, almost childish - especially in the current difficult and important time. - However, you will see for yourself - and if necessary, I will write a small - apologetic; preface or introduction. You will receive it in two or three weeks. - It is too two pages of typewritten paper, by my reckoning. - I have settled here for the whole summer and hope to work. I couldn't do anything in Paris. - Write to me here. - The air is light here and the land is beautiful."
The Man with Gray Glasses
"Человек в серых очках" (translated as "The Man with Grey Glasses" or simply "The Man with Grey Glasses" in English) is a work by Ivan Turgenev. Like many of Turgenev's works, it contains themes that explore human nature, social order and interpersonal dynamics.
"The Man with the Grey Spectacles unfolds in typical Turgenev style, providing a snapshot of the lives and experiences of the characters with a mixture of poignancy and critical observation of society. Turgenev explores the inner world of the characters, their thoughts, reflections and emotions, while capturing the social nuances and cultural aspects of the time.
Andrey Kolosov
"Андрей Колосов" (translated into English as "Andrey Kolosov") is one of Ivan Turgenev's lesser known and discussed works. It is a novella told in the first-person by a Nicolas Alexandrovitch about his friend Andrei Kolosov. They visit the Semenitch household as Kolosov hopes to woo the daughter, Varia. With Nicolas playing the role of a distractor for Varia's father, the intention is to give Kolosov some alone time with Varia, but things unravel unexpectedly. Similarly, in other stories, young men like Gavrilovitch and Fustov, or the narrator and Pasynkov, act as chaperones to aid their friends in romantic pursuits. Yet, these well-intended efforts often lead to complications. The dynamics of friendship in these tales vary, from a superficial bond between Gavrilovitch and Fustov to an admiration-filled relationship between the narrator and Pasynkov, to a deep camaraderie between Nicolas and Kolosov. This story was considered a masterpiece by the critic and author Flaubert.
Gogol
This work is Turgenev's intimate and descriptive notes on his relationship with Gogol, recording a fascinating look into the great writer. This includes an addendum where Turgenev mourns Gogol's passing.
Mumu
"Mumu" (1852) is one of Turgenev's most famous short stories. It revolves around a deaf-mute serf named Gerasim and his tragic love for his dog, Mumu. ""Mumu" stands out for its powerful commentary on the oppressive nature of the Russian aristocracy and the boundless love between a man and his dog.
A Strange Story
"A Strange Story" (Странная история in Russian) is an 1869 novella that focuses on the relationships and societal pressures faced by individuals. It delves into the nature of love, and how societal norms can be stifling to genuine human connections.
1877 Dream (Сон)
Dream is an 1877 story by Turgenev. The text narrates a deeply emotional and personal reflection, exploring themes of love, loss, and melancholy within a mother-son relationship. It talks about the mother’s youthfulness despite her sorrow and losses, her profound but sad beauty, and the complex emotional dynamics between her and the narrator. The text has a contemplative and introspective tone, characteristic of many Russian literary works from the 19th century, exploring themes of existential reflection, familial bonds, and emotional complexity.
1857 Trip to Polesie (Поездка в Полесье)
Trip to Polesie (Поездка в Полесье) is an 1857 narrative about Turgenev's description to modern day Poland .
1877 Father Alexey's Story
"The Tale of Father Alexey" (Рассказ отца Алексея) accentuates the profound impact of spirituality on the human soul. Compare this work to Tolstoy's novella Father Segius, which comments on similar themes. This is
1865 Enough (Довольно)
"Довольно" (usually translated into English as "Enough") is a short story by Ivan Turgenev. Turgenev, a major figure in Russian literature, often used his works to portray life, society and relationships in 19th century Russia.
The specific narratives, themes, and character developments found in "Довольно" can be explored in the context of Turgenev's larger body of work, which often explores themes of social dynamics, personal relationships, and ideological conflict. His stories often articulate the subtle and overt tensions that permeated Russian society during his time, using intimate and social relationships as a medium through which broader social critiques are conveyed.
Turgenev-Dostoevsky Letters
The correspondence between Ivan Turgenev and Fyodor Dostoevsky provides a fascinating insight into the relationship and differing philosophical views of two of Russia's most famous 19th century writers. Both men were contemporaries and had an immense impact on Russian literature, but their personal ideologies and perspectives on Russia and its future were very different. Turgenev was often perceived as a westerniser, someone who admired European cultures, while Dostoevsky was considered a Slavophile, who emphasised the unique spirit and destiny of the Russian people. These different viewpoints were reflected in their works, with Turgenev often emphasising individual emotional and psychological dynamics, and Dostoevsky exploring psychological depths and philosophical dialogues, often linked to questions of morality and faith.
These Turgenev-Dostoevsky letters reveal not only the personal relationship between the two authors, but also provide insights into their philosophical disagreements, the common themes in their works, personal financial entanglements and their perspectives on the socio-political issues of their time. The dialogues and criticisms between Turgenev and Dostoevsky were historically well known, encompassing both professional admiration and intense ideological conflict
"Dear and dear Lev Nikolayevich, I have not written to you for a long time, for I was and am, I say directly, on my deathbed... I am writing to you, in fact, to tell you how glad I was to be your contemporary and to express to you my last sincere request. My friend, return to literary activity! For this gift of yours is from whence all other things are.... My friend, great writer of the Russian land, - heed my request."
Turgenev's last letter to Dostoevsky
1883 Fire at Sea (Пожар на море)
Fire at Sea (Пожар на море in Russian) is a short 1883 journal-like narrative concerning Turgenev's experience with a fire onboard the steamboat Nicholas I in May 1838.
