Fathers and Sons - Ivan Turgenev

How does nihilism challenge the conservative order of nineteenth-century Russia?

Essay , 2006 , 5 Seiten

Kulturwissenschaften - Osteuropa

Since the uprising of the Decembrists in 1825, Russia had to deal with recurrent insurgence and turmoil due to popular Russian discontent with the prevailing Tsarist system, missing human rights, inequalities, and poverty. During the Crimean War between 1853 and 1856, Russia tried to expand its territory at the expense of the Ottoman Empire; however, the allies France, Great Britain and Piedmont-Sardinia defeated Russia soundly. It became apparent that Russia did not only lack behind in regard to infrastructure and latest technology but it also was not able to carry on its policy of serfdom while aspiring toward economic growth with the help of rapid industrialization.
Turgenev’s novel Fathers and Sons is set in the middle of these turbulent times with concentration on two major progressive movements, liberals and nihilists, opposing each other. The main protagonists are graduate Arkady Kirsanov and his friend Bazarov, prospective doctor of medicine, who Arkady sees as his mentor and teacher of nihilistic ideas. Both pay a visit to both their parents as well as new acquaintances in the country.

Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)

• How does nihilism challenge the conservative order of nineteenth-century Russia?
• The clash between the two generations
• The second clash between the old order and nihilism
• Bazarov’s nihilistic point of views clash with traditional family beliefs

Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)

This essay examines the challenges posed by nihilism to the conservative order of nineteenth-century Russia, as depicted in Ivan Turgenev's novel "Fathers and Sons." The analysis focuses on the clash between nihilistic ideas and traditional values, exploring the impact of these ideologies on family relationships, societal expectations, and individual beliefs.

• The nature of nihilism and its rejection of traditional values
• The conflict between nihilistic and conservative perspectives on love, marriage, and societal norms
• The impact of nihilism on family relationships and the generational divide
• The limitations and contradictions inherent in nihilistic ideology
• The ultimate triumph of the conservative order over nihilism

Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)

• The essay begins by introducing the historical context of nineteenth-century Russia, highlighting the social and political unrest that fueled the rise of progressive movements like liberalism and nihilism. It then introduces the novel's main protagonists, Arkady Kirsanov and his friend Bazarov, who represent the liberal and nihilistic perspectives, respectively. The essay also establishes the setting of the novel, highlighting the interactions between the two generations and their contrasting values.
• The essay then focuses on the first clash between the two generations, specifically the debate between Bazarov and Pavel Kirsanov, Arkady's uncle. This section delves into the philosophical and ideological differences between nihilism and conservatism, exploring the contrasting views on love, family, morals, and patriotism. The essay also highlights the tension between Bazarov's rejection of traditional authority and Pavel's belief in the importance of social order and principles.
• The essay further explores the conflict between the old order and nihilism by examining the interactions between Bazarov and Arkady in the company of women. This section focuses on the nihilistic view of love and marriage, which rejects traditional romantic ideals and seeks to redefine relationships based on individual desire and freedom. The essay analyzes the complexities of Bazarov's relationship with Anna Odintsova, highlighting his internal conflict between his nihilistic beliefs and his own emotional responses.
• Finally, the essay examines the clash between Bazarov's nihilistic views and traditional family beliefs. This section focuses on the disconnect between Bazarov's detachment from emotional attachments and his parents' longing for his presence and affection. The essay explores the tension between the nihilistic rejection of traditional values and the enduring power of familial bonds. It concludes by highlighting the ultimate triumph of the conservative order, symbolized by Arkady's rejection of nihilism and his marriage to Katya.

Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)

This preview examines the concept of nihilism in relation to the conservative order of nineteenth-century Russia, focusing on themes of generational conflict, societal norms, love and marriage, and the impact of ideology on individual beliefs and relationships. Key concepts include nihilism, liberalism, conservatism, traditional values, family, love, marriage, social order, and the influence of ideology on individual behavior.

• Hochschule: University of North Florida
• Autor: Jane Vetter (Autor:in)
• Erscheinungsjahr: 2006
• Seiten: 5
• Katalognummer: V116467
• ISBN (eBook): 9783640186389
• ISBN (Buch): 9783640188239
• Sprache: Englisch
• Schlagworte: Fathers, Sons, Ivan, Turgenev