The Golovlyov Family by Mikhail Saltykov-Shchedrin
The book is a bleak portrayal of a declining Russian noble family in the 19th century, focusing on the despotic and miserly matriarch, Arina Petrovna, and her offspring, who are plagued by vice and selfishness. The narrative delves into the moral decay and hypocrisy of the family members, particularly highlighting the cruel and cunning son, Porfiry, as he manipulates and exploits those around him to gain power. Set against the backdrop of a changing Russia, the story serves as a scathing critique of the societal and spiritual failings of the Russian gentry, illustrating the corrosive effects of greed and moral bankruptcy.
The 1407th greatest book of all time
- Published
- 1880
- Nationality
- Russian
- Length
- Medium
- Pages
- 300-400
- Original Language
- Russian
- Avg User Rating
-
(2.0)
- Alternate Titles
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- Family Golovlyov
- The Golovlyov Clan
- The Golovlyov Family
- The Golovlyov Household
- The Golovlyovs
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This book is on the following 3 lists:
- 55th on The Main Works of Russian literature (Polka Academy)
- The 100 Greatest Novels (Nezavisimaya Gazeta (Russian Newspaper))
- William H. F. Lamont’s 100 Best Novels (1947) (archive.org)