The Little Tragedies: Exploring the Russian Literature And Thought Series

Russian literature has captivated readers around the world for centuries. From the epic works of Tolstoy and Dostoevsky to the poetic masterpieces of Pushkin and Turgenev, Russian literature offers a unique perspective on the human condition. Among the many genres and subgenres that have emerged in Russian literature, one series stands out for its ability to explore the deepest complexities of human emotions and experiences: The Little Tragedies Russian Literature And Thought Series.

The Little Tragedies: An

The Little Tragedies is a collection of four plays written by the Russian poet and playwright Alexander Pushkin. Composed between 1828 and 1832, these works dive into philosophical and moral questions, human dilemmas, and the tragic aspects of human existence. Although each play has its independent plot and characters, they are united by their exploration of fate, love, power, and the intricacies of the human mind.

The Four Little Tragedies

The series comprises four plays: "The Covetous Knight," "Mozart and Salieri," "The Stone Guest," and "Feast during the Plague." Each play presents a unique narrative and setting, showcasing Pushkin's multifaceted writing talent. It is said that Pushkin was inspired by the classical tragedy format while incorporating his characteristic poetic style, making The Little Tragedies a one-of-a-kind exploration of human nature.

The Little Tragedies (Russian Literature and Thought Series)

by Alexander Pushkin(Kindle Edition)

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1643 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	246 pages
Paperback	:	200 pages
Reading age	:	Baby and up
Item Weight	:	8.9 ounces

FREE

The Covetous Knight

In "The Covetous Knight," Pushkin explores the theme of greed and the destructive consequences it can have on one's life. It tells the story of a knight who is driven by his insatiable desire for wealth and power, ultimately leading to his downfall. Through vivid dialogues and intense emotions, Pushkin delves into the depths of human ambition and the moral implications of one's choices.

Mozart and Salieri

"Mozart and Salieri" delves into the complex relationship between two famous composers, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Antonio Salieri. Pushkin explores the complexities of envy, talent, and rivalry, questioning the true nature of genius. The play provides a thought-provoking reflection on the destructive power of jealousy and the tragedy that can result from its grip on the human mind.

The Stone Guest

Pushkin takes a different turn in "The Stone Guest" and explores the theme of forbidden love and its consequences. Set in 16th-century Spain, the play tells the story of Don Juan, a legendary libertine, and his encounter with a ghostly statue. The play raises questions about the nature of love, morality, and redemption, leaving readers pondering the complexities of human relationships.

Feast during the Plague

"Feast during the Plague" presents a unique blend of tragedy, comedy, and satire. Pushkin explores the theme of mortality and the fragility of human life amidst the backdrop of a devastating plague. The play highlights the absurdity of human actions and exposes the flaws and virtues of the characters as they face the imminent threat of death. It serves as a commentary on the human capacity for resilience and the power of laughter in the face of adversity.

The Legacy of The Little Tragedies

The Little Tragedies remains a significant contribution to Russian literature and has inspired numerous adaptations in theater, opera, and even film. Pushkin's exploration of emotions, philosophical questions, and the human psyche resonates with readers of all generations and cultural backgrounds. The plays continue to be studied in universities and appreciated by literary enthusiasts worldwide.

The Little Tragedies Russian Literature And Thought Series offers a captivating and thought-provoking exploration of the complexities of human existence. Through the four tragic plays, Alexander Pushkin delves into themes of greed, envy, forbidden love, and the absurdity of life. The series remains a testament to Pushkin's genius and continues to captivate readers with its profound insights. Dive into The Little Tragedies and discover a fascinating world of Russian literature and thought.

Images: Unsplash

The Little Tragedies (Russian Literature and Thought Series)

by Alexander Pushkin(Kindle Edition)

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1643 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	246 pages
Paperback	:	200 pages
Reading age	:	Baby and up
Item Weight	:	8.9 ounces

FREE

In a major burst of creativity, Russian poet Alexander Pushkin during just three months in 1830 completed Eugene Onegin, composed more than thirty lyric poems, wrote several short stories and folk tales, and penned the four short dramas in verse that comprise the “little tragedies.” The “little tragedies” stand among the great masterpieces of Russian literature, yet they were last translated into English a quarter-century ago and have in recent years been out of print entirely. In this outstanding new translation, Nancy K. Anderson preserves the cadence and intensity of Pushkin’s work while aligning it with today’s poetic practices and freer approach to metrics. In addition she provides critical essays examining each play in depth, a discussion of her approach to translating the plays, and a consideration of the genre of these dramatic pieces and their performability.

The four “little tragedies”—Mozart and Salieri, The Miserly Knight, The Stone Guest, and A Feast During the Plague—are extremely compressed dialogues, each dealing with a dominant protagonist whose central internal conflict determines both the plot and structure of the play. Pushkin focuses on human passions and the interplay between free will and fate: though each protagonist could avoid self-ruin, instead he freely chooses it.