Scan barcode
A review by jpanslabyrinthofbooks
The Night Before Christmas by Nikolai Gogol
3.0
This was an enchanting folk tale of Russian Literature, a first-time reading, that was gifted to me in a giveaway by a precious friend.
The story follows a young Blacksmith named Vakula who is besotten with the local 'beauty' named Oksana; a daughter, aware of her beauty and elegance. He is battling the Devil for her love; who has stolen the moon to wreak havoc upon the village of Dikanka.
This tale includes adult themes, things that I wouldn't expect within a children's novel but also things that make the narrative more alluring. They encapsulate the entirety of Christmas, first love and the traditions within culture. From romance, to suicide and alcohol - the story is reminiscent of a classic Romeo and Juliet story. It shows the hardships of love, the tales are harrowing and the trials unbearable. But it portrays commitment and genorosity, humble tidings and belief will power through hard times.
The story follows a young Blacksmith named Vakula who is besotten with the local 'beauty' named Oksana; a daughter, aware of her beauty and elegance. He is battling the Devil for her love; who has stolen the moon to wreak havoc upon the village of Dikanka.
This tale includes adult themes, things that I wouldn't expect within a children's novel but also things that make the narrative more alluring. They encapsulate the entirety of Christmas, first love and the traditions within culture. From romance, to suicide and alcohol - the story is reminiscent of a classic Romeo and Juliet story. It shows the hardships of love, the tales are harrowing and the trials unbearable. But it portrays commitment and genorosity, humble tidings and belief will power through hard times.