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3.84 AVERAGE
3.84 AVERAGE
This novel was familiar to the Russian style in using Bazarov, a cynical, attractive yet somewhat repulsive character, as the central figure, and in including a duel. The courting theme and parallels between two sets of characters (Arkady and his father; Bazarov and his father) is also very similar to Lermontov and Pushkin's writing. However, this novel is understood to be "revolutionary," in part for its timing and commentary on emancipation of peasants, even though that seemed to play a limited role. Also, it is supposed to be the first well-recognized Russian novel in the West, as Turgenev is also the "Novelist's Novelist." I'm sure it's from a lack of education, but I fail to recognize how Westernized this novel is, if only in style.
An answer to an unsaid prayer. I needed this book so much at the exact moment I read it. The ending is all encompassing and brings such peace and solace. So written for our times - I swear.
adventurous
emotional
funny
sad
tense
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Terminal illness
Read for my class on Modern Russia last semester. As with most novels read as part of a history course, the context is the most important thing to consider here. Fathers and Sons represents a particular period in Russian history, one where old ways were slowly giving way to new ones. The older characters (the "fathers") are more used to the old ways, while the younger ones (the "sons") deride the old ways in favor of new ones. It's a story that could really apply to any period of change in history, but being as how it's Russian history, it's a little more complex and interesting.
challenging
informative
mysterious
reflective
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
Okay first of all, I don't think I even knew what nihilism was. I had to look it up! Even though the book felt like a slog at times reading it, I'm glad that I did. This author is a favorite of a very bookish friend of mine who I work with. I was entertained by the generational differences, but more than that, I was highly entertained by the feminism showcased in this book especially given when it was written. I think Ivan was a little ahead of his time. While nothing much happened in the book, I liked the way he examined each and every relationship. However I did find Bazarov perplexing in that he protested love and then promptly fell in love with Anna Odintsov, and then again with Fenitchka. It's like he went from one extreme to the other. I'm not sure I will read more by him, but you never know.
challenging
informative
reflective
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
rereading school program books for my college study and this one i LOVE. i Bazarov get, but also fuck him for being so messy to my boytoy Arkady. also the women characters are top tier
emotional
reflective
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
going to need a minute before i review this…..I NEEED TO PROCESS