CONTENTS A Desperate Character A Strange Story Punin and Baburin Old Portraits The Brigadier Pyetushkov

Pyetushkov is the work of a young man of twenty-nine; and its lively; unstrained realism is so bold; intimate; and delicate as to contradict the flattering compliment that the French have paid to one another—that Turgenev had need to dress his art by the aid of French mirrors. Although Pyetushkov shows us; by a certain open naïveté of style; that a youthful hand is at work; it is the hand of a young master; carrying out the realism of the ‘forties’—that of Gogol; Balzac; and Dickens—straightway; with finer point; to find a perfect equilibrium free from any bias or caricature. The whole strength and essence of the realistic method has been developed in Pyetushkov to its just limits. The Russians are instinctive realists; and carry the warmth of life into their pages; which warmth the French seem to lose in clarifying their impressions and crystallising them in art. Pyetushkov is not exquisite: it is irresistible. Note how the reader is transported bodily into Pyetushkov’s stuffy room; and how the major fairly boils out of the two pages he lives in! (pp. 301; 302). That is realism if you like. A woman will see the point of Pyetushkov very quickly. Onisim and Vassilissa and the aunt walk and chatter around the stupid Pyetushkov; and glance at him significantly in a manner that reveals everything about these people’s world. All the servants who appear in the tales in this volume are hit off so marvellously that one sees the lower-class world; which is such a mystery to certain refined minds; has no secrets for Turgenev. Babbitt by Sinclair Lewis: This classic novel satirizes the conformity and materialism of American middle-class life in the early 20th century. The story follows the life of George Babbitt, a successful real estate agent who becomes increasingly disillusioned with his own life and the values of the society around him. Key Aspects of the Book "Babbitt": Social Critique: The novel offers a biting critique of American middle-class culture, revealing the emptiness and shallowness of its values and aspirations. Character Study: The central character, George Babbitt, is a complex and nuanced portrayal of a man struggling with the contradictions and limitations of his own life. Literary Style: Lewis employs a distinctive blend of satire, realism, and irony to craft a compelling and thought-provoking narrative. Sinclair Lewis was an American novelist and social critic who won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1930. Born in Minnesota in 1885, he rose to prominence in the 1920s with his satirical depictions of American middle-class life, including works like Main Street and Babbitt. He was known for his sharp wit and critical eye, and his works continue to be important cultural touchstones to this day.

Immerse yourself in the poignant world of Ivan Turgenev with his captivating collection, "A Desperate Character and Other Stories." This anthology offers a glimpse into the complexities of human emotions, relationships, and the struggles of the heart. As Turgenev's narratives unfold, a compelling question emerges: What drives a person to the brink of despair, and how do their choices reflect the intricacies of the human experience? Each story within this collection reveals the delicate balance between love, loss, and longing, showcasing Turgenev’s masterful ability to portray the inner lives of his characters. Readers will be drawn into a world where moments of desperation lead to profound revelations and emotional awakenings. This edition revitalizes Turgenev’s timeless tales, making them accessible to modern readers while preserving the depth and nuance of his writing. The rich imagery and evocative language transport you to 19th-century Russia, inviting contemplation on universal themes that resonate across time. Are you prepared to explore the depths of human emotion in "A Desperate Character and Other Stories"? Engage with impactful passages that highlight the struggles and triumphs of ordinary individuals. Turgenev’s keen observations challenge you to reflect on your own experiences and the nature of desperation. This is your chance to delve into a classic collection that speaks to the heart of what it means to be human. Will you join Turgenev on this emotional journey and uncover the beauty within the struggle? Don’t miss the opportunity to own this compelling anthology. Purchase "A Desperate Character and Other Stories" now, and immerse yourself in the timeless tales of love and longing that continue to resonate today.