Explore the clash of generations in Turgenev's 'Fathers and Sons', the frustrations of Russian politics in the 1860s, and why Dostoyevsky was infuriated by the novel. Delve into the complex father-son relationships, nihilistic debates, and contrasting characters in Russian literature. Discover themes of ambition, legacy, and nostalgia intertwined with societal issues and familial dynamics in this intriguing podcast.
Turgenev's novel Fathers and Sons delves into intergenerational conflict and political frustration in 19th century Russia.
The book's portrayal of ideological clashes and family dynamics reflects the changing socio-political landscape of 1860s Russia.
Deep dives
Overview of Toganiav's Novels and Russian Literature
Toganiav's novels, such as Fathers and Sons, delve into the conflict between generations in 19th century Russia. These literary works, including War and Peace and The Possessed, reflect profound political and social themes, anticipating the upheavals of Russian politics in the 20th century.
Toganiav's Fathers and Sons vs. Dostoevsky's The Possessed
Fathers and Sons, published in 1862, offers a contrasting narrative to Dostoevsky's The Possessed. Toganiav's novel focuses on domestic interactions in a more intimate setting, distinct from the grand, sweeping narratives seen in other Russian literary works.
Intergenerational Conflict and Political Repercussions
Fathers and Sons exemplifies the clash between generations, portraying intergenerational misunderstandings and their far-reaching political implications. It dissects the tensions between fathers and sons, embodying a timeless exploration of family dynamics and societal change.
Impacts of Emancipation and Philosophical Disputes
Set against the backdrop of Russia's serf emancipation era, Toganiav's novel navigates philosophical disputes through characters like Bazarov, a nihilist challenging societal norms. The book's nuanced portrayal of ideological clashes and personal relationships mirrors the evolving socio-political landscape of 1860s Russia.
This week’s Great Political Fiction is Ivan Turgenev’s Fathers and Sons (1862), the definitive novel about the politics – and emotions – of intergenerational conflict. How did Turgenev manage to write a wistful novel about nihilism? What made Russian politics in the early 1860s so chock-full of frustration? Why did Turgenev’s book infuriate his contemporaries – including Dostoyevsky?
‘When the two of them meet, they are already presenting themselves as elderly men in their early forties (Turgenev asserts that after 40 the basis of life is renunciation).’