Ivan Turgenev, a Russian literary giant, is celebrated for his Realist works that critique societal norms and serfdom. Born into an aristocratic family, his education and travels shaped his worldview and literary style. His masterpieces, including 'Fathers and Sons,' address the generational ideological rift and remain influential for their social commentary and narrative technique.
Show More
Ivan Turgenev was born into an aristocratic family in Oryol, Russia, with a father who was a member of the gentry and a mother who brought considerable wealth
Private Tutors
Turgenev's early education was conducted by private tutors, which equipped him with fluency in several European languages
University Studies
Turgenev attended the University of Moscow and later transferred to the University of St. Petersburg and the University of Berlin, where he studied literature, philosophy, and the classics
Turgenev was influenced by the German philosopher G.W.F. Hegel and his ideas of absolute idealism during his studies in Berlin
Turgenev's literary career took off in the 1850s with the publication of "A Sportsman's Sketches," a collection of short stories that depicted the harsh realities of serf life in Russia
Mumu
Turgenev's poignant short story "Mumu" showcased his opposition to oppression and touched on themes of love, loyalty, and sacrifice
Fathers and Sons
Turgenev's masterpiece "Fathers and Sons" delved into the ideological conflicts of his time and explored the rift between the older generation and the nihilistic youth
Turgenev's works are renowned for their insightful examination of the Russian social and political landscape and their contributions to social change
Turgenev's prose is marked by its clarity, lyrical quality, and meticulous character and setting descriptions
Frame Story
Turgenev often employed the literary device of a frame story, weaving a secondary narrative within the primary plot to add complexity and evoke a sense of nostalgia
Turgenev's literary legacy extends to his social critiques, reflecting his commitment to Enlightenment ideals and his opposition to the serfdom system in Russia
Turgenev's works are lauded for their profound depiction of Russian society and their contributions to social change
Turgenev's preference for Western European residence and his association with Western intellectuals reflect his embrace of Western thought
Turgenev's influence remains significant in the canon of world literature, with his works continuing to resonate for their nuanced social commentary, elegant prose, and dedication to the principles of Realism
00
Birthplace and date of Ivan Turgenev
Born in Oryol, Russia on November 9, 1818.
01
Ivan Turgenev's family background
Father was a nobleman, mother was wealthy; second of three sons.
02
Influence of German philosophy on Turgenev
Studied at University of Berlin; influenced by Hegel's absolute idealism.
