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A review by alishajuma
A Hero of Our Time by Mikhail Lermontov
2.0
This novel is a collection of travelling notes that explore the complexities of masculinity and the societal pressures placed on men to conform to a particular ideal of strength, stoicism, and dominance. The behaviours displayed by the protagonist Pechorin, such as emotional detachment, manipulation of others, and a pursuit of power reflects the the limitations and harms of traditional gender norms. The book suggested that it’s good to be toxically masculine on the outside but not good inside the house in civilised settings. This dual expectation seems to have a detrimental effect on Pechorin’s ability to form meaningful relationships. The women in the novel (mainly Princess Mary and Vera) are relegated to passive roles, rather than fully realised individuals with agency; the underlying message I got perpetuated that actions of men are paramount, while women exist primarily in relation to men.
When reading this book, I did not feel like Lermontov was criticising gender norms, but was more so justifying the behaviour of men that act in this way. The novel could be seen as depicting the consequences of these societal expectations on the psyche of men. From this perspective, Lermontov might not have intended to justify Pechorin's actions, but rather to highlight how societal pressures and rigid gender roles can lead to destructive behaviours. Looking at the intersection of personal agency and societal expectations caused you to reflect upon the choices you make and the influences that shape you.
I really enjoyed the premise of this book, but it wasn’t a particularly enjoyable read. The kidnapping and objectification of women and the disjointed story telling made me excited for it to end. However, I think if i re-read this book I would enjoy it much more now I know what the book is trying to explore. So this is a preliminary rating until I read this again.
When reading this book, I did not feel like Lermontov was criticising gender norms, but was more so justifying the behaviour of men that act in this way. The novel could be seen as depicting the consequences of these societal expectations on the psyche of men. From this perspective, Lermontov might not have intended to justify Pechorin's actions, but rather to highlight how societal pressures and rigid gender roles can lead to destructive behaviours. Looking at the intersection of personal agency and societal expectations caused you to reflect upon the choices you make and the influences that shape you.
I really enjoyed the premise of this book, but it wasn’t a particularly enjoyable read. The kidnapping and objectification of women and the disjointed story telling made me excited for it to end. However, I think if i re-read this book I would enjoy it much more now I know what the book is trying to explore. So this is a preliminary rating until I read this again.