How Ostrovsky depicts the world of businessmen without a dowry. Essays

Lesson-seminar on literature on the topic “The tragedy of the “warm heart”

in the play by A.N. Ostrovsky "Dowry"

Target: Identification of the causes of the emotional drama and tragedy of the main character based on the analysis of the play.

Task:To form in students ideas about the era of the 70s of the 19th century, when a heartless purist ruled in society, turning a poor, dependent person into an object of purchase and sale, into a “thing, and the possessor into one obsessed with an insatiable thirst for profit; help students see the universal meaning of the play.

Pre-communicative stage:

2. Group assignments:

First group: General characteristics“the powerful of this world”: Vozhevatova and Knurova.

Second group: Characteristics of Karandyshev.

Third group: Portrait of Larisa Ogudalova.

Fourth group: Characteristics of Paratov.

3. Individual task:

a) interpretation of the heroine’s image by various actresses playing the role of Larisa;

b) Dramatization of the episode of the last conversation between Larisa and Karandyshev.

4. Design Elements: If you were asked to draw a poster for the play "Dowry", what would you depict on it and why.

Equipment:Fragments and audio recordings of the romances “The Shaggy Bumblebee”, “Under the Mask of a Plush Blanket” from the film “Cruel Romance”

Lesson progress

Teacher:Known at the end of the 19th century and the beginning of the 20th century theatrical figure, actor, director, founder of the Moscow Art Theater K.S. Stanislavsky once said about A.N. Ostrovsky: “I do not know among Russian writers a second such passionate fighter for the rights of Russian women as Ostrovsky. Ostrovsky’s Russian women, or rather her bitter lot, are one integral character, only the author placed them in one or another life circumstances.”

It is impossible to disagree with this. Indeed, Katerina from “The Thunderstorm”, and Parasha from “Warm Heart”, and “Snow Maiden”, and Aksinya from the play “Forest”, and Kruchinina from “Guilty Without Guilt”, and Negina from the drama “Talents and Admirers” - that’s all these are in many ways kindred natures, who are brought together by the desire for freedom and happiness, all these are heroines with truly warm hearts, heroines striving to break their bonds, who do not want to come to terms with immoral and vicious phenomena in the reality around them, these are heroines distinguished by purity of thoughts, nobility , sincerity, self-esteem, natural talent and charm. Larisa Ogudalova from the play by A.N. can rightfully be included among these heroines. Ostrovsky's "Dowry", a heroine who painfully longs for the strong and beautiful in life, but mistakes a tinsel barren flower for truly beautiful things. The task of our lesson is to find out who is to blame for Larisa’s tragedy, the tragedy of another “warm heart”?

All the threads of the play come down, of course, to the image of Larisa Ogudalova, since it is Larisa who is the person around whom the dramatic action is concentrated. Again in “The Dowry,” as in almost all of A.N.’s plays. Ostrovsky, love becomes the touchstone. The four heroes of the play, one way or another, hope to gain Larisa's favor, and in fact, each of them plays a fatal role in the fate of the heroine.

The image of the heroine is unusually complex, contradictory; debates about Larisa and her character continue to this day. It is no coincidence that the path to Larisa on the theater stage was so long: for a long time Larisa could not find a true stage incarnation, despite the fact that the performers of this role were talented actresses.

How did the actresses see Larisa?

Message: Some actresses portrayed her as a pretty bourgeois woman leading a reckless life in her mother’s house,

In the performance of others, it was a gypsy-style lioness who encountered a male predator on the paths of love.

But in 1896, 17 years after the first productions, “Dowry” sounded differently. Popular and talented actress V.F. Komissarzhevskaya saw in Larisa a heroine, “suffering and dying for all women, an impetuous nature, constantly searching and deeply tragic.

Teacher:We will return to the question of which interpretation, in your opinion, is most correct at the end of the lesson. The play “Dowry” is one of the most popular in the repertoire of drama theaters today; more than once it has attracted the attention of filmmakers. The remarkable film director E. Ryazanov staged the film “Cruel Romance” based on the play “Dowry”, explaining his plan as follows: “I immediately felt the story about the Dowry, like a sad song, like a sad romance.” The romances heard in the film are precisely woven into the plot, and most importantly, do not violate the plans of the playwright A.N. Ostrovsky, on the contrary, is even more helpful in understanding the drama of the play and the tragedy of the heroine. You can hear passion, tenderness, bitterness, anxiety, and suffering in them.

What is the reason that the play has outlived its time, what attracts attention to it? We will find the answer to this question in the play itself, the character of the characters, the conflict that determines its tragic outcome and the tragedy of the main character.

(Romance “Under the caress of a plush blanket”

from the movie "Cruel Romance".)

Teacher: “What was that? Whose victory? Who is the hunter and who is the prey in that fight? I still don’t know: have I won or been defeated?” These key words, in the best possible way, lead us to talk about conflict, because without it the development of any action is impossible. Talking about artistic features Ostrovsky's plays, we noted that the names of many plays already determine their connection with the content? The play is called "Dowry". In your opinion, is there some predetermination of the conflict in the title of this play, a predisposition to subsequent, dramatically developing events?

(Students' answers)

Teacher:Thus, the title of the play already to some extent defines the conflict - social. Thus, A.N. Ostrovsky continues and develops the main theme of his plays: the conflict between the “powers that be” and the poor, but this theme is revealed differently, in accordance with new conditions public life, when the “dark kingdom” is replaced by a “pure public”, when capitalist relations are rapidly developing in the country. Yes, Larisa’s trouble is that she is homeless.

But is this the only reason tragic fate heroine, especially since Larisa could avoid poverty if she accepted Knurov’s offer, and all “her desires and whims, no matter how strange and expensive they may be,” would be fulfilled. Probably, the reasons for the tragedy are much deeper. Knurov, Vozhevatov, Paratov are Larisa’s potential suitors; under certain circumstances, each of them could become Larisa’s husband, but they are wealthy people, and marriage with a dowry is not in their favor. What can connect them with Larisa? Knurov is generally married, but is looking for Larisa’s favor, what goals are they pursuing, who are these people who are so worried about Larisa’s upcoming marriage to Karandyshev? Are these heroes similar to the “powers of this world” from the play “The Thunderstorm”? Has their moral character changed?

Message of the first group: (Characteristics of the “powers of this world”).

Businessmen, entrepreneurs, millionaires; these are no longer illiterate, afraid of everything new, ignorant people; they no longer believe Feklushi’s stories about the fiery serpent; on the contrary, they are educated and familiar with culture; their manners have changed and correspond to European ones; This is a “pure public”: they exercise every morning, drink tea in the morning, read newspapers, they are interested in culture, so Vozhevatov and Knurov are going to an exhibition in Paris. Realizing their advantage, they allow themselves to talk only with those who are their equal. They know the value of money (D. I, yavl.2). Knurov: “Yes, you can do things with money, you can.” The goal of their life is to sell profitably, buy profitably. They are ready to put a person's life on the line for money. Moral Character These people are revealed primarily in their relationship with Larisa. Seeing that Larisa is on the verge of death, Knurov and Vozhevatov are playing a toss with her, talking about Larisa as a thing; Paratov sells not only the ship, but also his love, sacrifices his freedom. Vozhevatov’s callousness and calculation are manifested at the moment when Larisa asks him for help: “Vasya, help, I’m dying, teach me what to do,” and hears: “Larisa Dmitrievna, my dear! What should I do? Nothing can be done,” because he gave his word to Knurov, he cannot break it; He doesn’t need Larisa now, he has lost all interest in her.

Teacher:So, before us are the idols of society, immoral businessmen, cynical and arrogant, predatory and vain, the measure of life for them is profit. This is how they approach people, including Larisa.

What attracts them to Larisa, what do we know besides the fact that she is homeless.

Message from the third group: Larisa stands out sharply from the people around her. She is an extraordinary girl, pure, loving life, artistically gifted. Larisa's soul grows from Russian romances, gypsy songs, and Baratynsky's poems. Her nature is refined and poetic: she sings beautifully, plays various instruments, feels the beauty of nature. The poetry of her character is emphasized by her name Larisa, which means seagull in Greek. Larisa lives in a world that she created for herself - in a world of dreams and romance. Through the veil of daydreaming, she does not notice the vulgar sides in people, but sees only what she herself desires. Larisa is distinguished by honesty and directness. So, Vozhevatov remarks to Knurova: “Whoever she is disposed towards, she doesn’t hide it at all.” (D. I, appearance 2.). She is capable of deep and passionate love. She fell in love with Paratov with all her soul, “she almost died of grief, and when he was leaving, she rushed after him, and her mother came calling from the second station,” Vozhevatov tells Knurov, laughing. Larisa is trusting, and people seem better to her than they really are. So, Paratov seems wonderful to her, strong man. “Is it possible to be unsure of him?” - Larisa exclaims, having previously told the story of Paratov’s shot at a distance of 12 steps at the coin that Larisa was holding in her hands. Because of her gullibility, Larisa could not discern a narcissistic egoist in Paratov and therefore believes him until the last minute; I didn’t understand that often behind his noble deeds (he gave money to the poor), his daring, recklessness, only bravado and a desire to make an effect are hidden. Her talent and desire for truth and purity lift her high above the world of businessmen in which she revolves. She is an exception in this world where everything is bought and sold. Larisa’s originality is recognized by Knurov and Vozhevatov, who are accustomed to evaluating everything from the point of view of benefit, and they approach Larisa with this yardstick. Thus, Knurov cynically declares: “This woman was created for luxury. An expensive diamond is expensive and requires a setting.” (D.I, yavl.2).

Teacher:Larisa's originality, natural talent, and talent raise her high above those around her; Knurov, Vozhevatov, Paratov, Karandyshev could not help but notice these qualities. We must give them their due: they are capable of appreciating beauty and admiring talent. But another question arises: can they truly, unselfishly appreciate?

If not, then what pushes her to get married?

What does Larisa hope for when she marries Karandyshev?

(Students' answers: reading D.I, phenomenon 4). Larisa hopes that over time she will get used to Karandyshev, find peace of mind, the wound inflicted by Paratov is still strong, and therefore Larisa persuades Karandyshev to go to the village).

Teacher:Will Karandyshev be able to make Larisa happy, will he be able to understand her wounded soul. And in general, repeating after Knurov, we will answer the question: “Well, what is Karandyshev?”

Second group message : Karandyshev is a minor official, he has no special merits, but he is very proud. To some extent, aware of his poverty and low position in society, he bends over backwards to show that he is no worse than others, trying to adapt to the “pure public”. Vozhevatov: “I decided to decorate my apartment...” (D.I, appearance 2). Karandyshev loves Larisa, but even here he wants to assert himself, he wants to show himself as the “master of life.” He doesn’t like that Larisa communicates freely with Vozhevaty and Knurov, he reproaches her for her former life, is jealous of Larisa, which hurts her painfully. Larisa does not hide that she does not like Karandyshev: “Why do you constantly reproach me…”. (D.I, yavl.4). But Karandyshev does not understand her, he is too busy with himself. All his actions are driven by pride. Wanting to satisfy his pride, he wants to show Knurov and Vozhevatov that Larisa chose him and not someone else, appreciated him, preferred him and invites them to dinner. Here he makes a toast: “Gentlemen, I propose a toast to Larisa Dmitrievna...”. (D.I, revelation 13).

Teacher: Larisa finds herself surrounded by these people. Is there anyone among these people who understands Larisa, her soul. What is your attitude towards Larisa’s mother?

Teacher: He sells his daughter Ogudalova for 30 pieces of silver, just as Judas once betrayed Jesus. So, Larisa’s situation is tragic: among those people who surround her, there is not a single one who understands her or sympathizes with her. For her, Karandyshev is just a straw that she is trying to cling to in this life in order to retire and find peace of mind. Larisa latently understands that Karandyshev is not worthy of her; she loves Paratov with all her soul. He is ideal for her. A year later, Larisa continues to love him, “and if Sergei Sergeevich appeared and was free, then one look from him would be enough...” and Larisa would follow him to the ends of the earth.

Fragment from the film “Cruel Romance”. Romance "The Shaggy Bumblebee".

Teacher: So noisily and dashingly Paratov bursts into Bryakhimov, he is greeted with a shot from a cannon; servants, coachmen, gypsies run towards the “brilliant master.” With his appearance, the action picks up speed and inexorably approaches the denouement. - Who is he - Larisa’s ideal and at the same time an evil genius? What are his life principles Why does Larisa love him?

Message from the fourth group : Paratov is a brilliant gentleman, a ship owner. “Paratov lives in style,” says Knurov. “What else, but there is enough luxury in him.” In Bryakhimov he is known as a brave and generous man: he risks a ship, shoots at a coin in order to win a race, generously gifts servants with money. It seems to her that Larisa admires his courage and nobility. Karandyshev rightly noted: “He has no heart, that’s why he’s so brave!” (D I, yavl.4) Paratov says about himself: “I don’t know what a pity is... whatever.” (D.I, yavl.6). For him, the main thing in life is money, wealth. Paratov: “Life is short, so you need to know how to use it.” And Paratov does not give up his principles.

Teacher:- For what purpose does Paratov come to Bryakhimov?

How does Paratov perceive the news of Larisa’s marriage, and for what purpose does he appear again at the Ogudalovs? Was this meeting an attempt to make amends to Larisa?

(This was a surprise to him, and at the same time he felt some relief that part of the guilt was being removed from him.)

Reading by roles D II, yavl.8.

Teacher: Is Paratov sincere in this scene?

(Sample student answers): In the explanation with Larisa, a big role is played not by the feeling of guilt in front of her, but by Paratov’s pride. He cannot come to terms with the fact that someone else was chosen over him. Paratov accuses Larisa of inconstancy of feelings, although he himself became the cause of her suffering by escaping a year ago. It is impossible not to notice the pomposity, pompousness of his accusatory speeches, the game of a proud hero, but Larisa does not notice this. Paratov gets Larisa to confess that her love for him is still strong. His pride is satisfied.

Teacher:Paratov’s role in the scene of the duel with Karandyshev is no less unsightly; this clash could have been avoided, but Paratov, on the contrary, incites a quarrel. What goal does he pursue in doing this?

(Humiliate Karandyshev, present yourself in a favorable light, play on Larisa’s feelings).

Teacher: This quarrel scene is plot-related to latest events. At the end of the action, we learn about Paratov’s plan to make fun of Karandyshev. What is the conspiracy of Paratov, Vozhevatov and Knurov?

(Students’ answers: retelling of the dinner scene from Karandyshev D.I, appearances 1 -13).

Teacher:Larisa had seen it before, but tried not to notice Karandyshev’s insignificance. Now this insignificance was revealed with all obviousness, and even in the presence of the man she loves. She is ashamed of Karandyshev, but no one cares about her suffering. While mocking Karandyshev, these people do not take into account Larisa’s feelings at all: “But they are tormenting me,” she says in despair to Kharita Ignatievna.

And who needs you tormented? - the mother answers her daughter.

Indeed, no one cares about Larisa’s suffering. Everyone has different goals for Larisa. The action is moving towards a climax. Where does it start?

Student answers: The climax of the drama is Larisa’s decision to go with Paratov beyond the Volga.

Teacher:Let us remember the scene preceding this decision.

What is driving Paratov at that moment when he calls Larisa, is it really a passion that involuntarily flared up from Larisa’s beautiful singing, maybe Paratov really hasn’t completely become vulgar and has become coarse, or is he being guided by something else.

Teacher: What made Larisa take this step?

Student answers:

Teacher:Larisa puts her life on the line: “Either you are happy, mom, or look for me in the Volga.” Larisa did not see, did not discern in Paratov a ruthless egoist, a narcissistic cynic. But they foresaw and knew that Knurov and Vozhevatov would soon happen. Like predators, they wait for the moment when they can grab onto the prey. They understood that Paratov would never give up his marriage to his millionaire bride; Larisa was not in his interests; and Larisa will not stay with Karandyshev (not in her character). “It seems like the drama is starting. I’ve already seen Larisa Dmitrievna’s tears,” Knurov tells Vozhevatov. It was Knurov’s turn to take part in Larisa’s fate. He eliminates Vozhevatov’s only rival by playing Larisa toss. Knurov was not mistaken. The mask of a passionate lover is dropped. Paratov wants to get rid of Larisa, not even considering it necessary to take her home, but asks Robinson to do this. And when she demands a decisive answer: is she his wife or not, Paratov calls his feeling a momentary infatuation and says that he is bound by “golden chains.”

What is Larisa's reaction?

Sample student answers: She is shocked, only now she saw Paratov in his true light, and yet she has the strength to answer him with dignity: Get away from me... Enough! I’ll think about myself.” (D.IV, Rev.7). The tragic ending is getting closer and closer. During the development of the play, 3 options for the ending of the heroine's fate are outlined, which ones?

Student answers:

1) become a kept woman, Knurov’s mistress;

2) stay with Karandyshev;

3) physical death.

Why does Ostrovsky choose the third option for Larisa as the only possible way out?

Sample student answers:

1) Karandyshev is not worthy of Larisa, he is shallow and insignificant to her.

2) debauchery, brilliance, luxury are not for Larisa: the heroine cannot change herself, her ideals, she is too pure and immaculate to step over herself in the name of “to live, to live at least somehow.” Larisa is looking for death, but we see that the heroine does not have the strength to commit suicide, as Katerina did from “The Thunderstorm,” and lacks the determination that Praskovya possessed from “A Warm Heart.” Larisa's situation is terrible. But the worst is yet to come for Larisa.

Dramatization of the episode of the last conversation between Larisa and Karandyshev (D.IV, appearance 11).

Teacher: So, having rejected Knurov’s proposal a few minutes ago, she is ready to call Knurov and accept his proposal. Why?

Teacher: How hopelessly black the world must have seemed to Larisa if she accepted Karandyshev’s bullet with joy, as deliverance, and it becomes clear to each of us what it cost Larisa to agree that she is a thing. “My dear, what a blessing you have done for me.” In the face of death, Larisa remains true to herself. Dying, she picks up a pistol from the ground and stages suicide, her last words sound.

Reading D.VI, Rev.12.

(Romance “And finally, I’ll say from the movie “Cruel Romance.”)

Teacher: Larisa was looking for happiness and love. But I didn’t find it. A young, beautiful creature, who dreamed of what every person living on earth has the right to have, passes away. What was the cause and who was to blame for the tragedy of another “warm heart”?

Teacher: Do you think such situations are possible in modern life?

Students' answers.

This is precisely why attention to the play by A.N. Ostrovsky does not fade to this day, and the tragic fate of Larisa is an eternal reminder to us that a person must always remain human, must assert his human dignity, without resigning himself to meanness, no matter how big or small.

Now let’s return to the question of the actresses’ interpretation of Larisa’s image. Whose interpretation of the image is closer to you?

If you were asked to draw a poster for a play, what would you think it should look like?

Defense of the project by a group of artists.

Suggested poster options: “A seagull imprisoned in a cage.” "Broken Heart"

Final word teachers.

Homework: Written response to the questions: Do you agree that the play by A.N. Is Ostrovsky truly a “play of life”? What is its relevance?

They have arithmetic instead of soul.
A. N. Ostrovsky
The play “Dowry” is Ostrovsky’s fortieth original work, on which the experienced playwright worked for an unusually long time - four years. For the first time, he brought new heroes to the stage in his play - industrialists, shipowners, and businessmen of a new formation who appeared with the birth and development of capitalism in Russia.
Mokiy Parmenych Knurov is “a major businessman of modern times with a huge fortune.” Vasily Danilych Vozhevatov is “a representative of a wealthy trading company.” Sergei Sergeevich Paratov is “a brilliant gentleman, one of the shipowners.” These are the heroes of the new time.
The phrase “they have arithmetic instead of a soul” is pronounced in the play by Sergei Sergeich Paratov. This is how he characterizes the foreigners who serve on his ship. “They have a short soul,” he says with confidence in his own superiority. Yes, Paratov loves and knows how to live beautifully. He is witty, passionate, and knows how to appreciate beauty. But he knows even better how to ask the price: “If I find a profit, I’ll sell everything, anything,” he admits to Knurov. – I have other matters and other calculations. I will marry a very rich girl and take gold mines as a dowry.” No matter how sorry he is to part with his freedom, with his happy life, but gold mines are undoubtedly more valuable and profitable. Knurov and Vozhevatov approve of the deal: after all, you really can’t marry Larisa, who is without a dowry! Just have some fun with her one last time! Vozhevatov also proudly says that he does not notice in himself that “what is called love.” But he knows well that “every product has a price,” and will not give away too much. Although Larisa Dmitrievna is an “expensive diamond,” she will not add to the fortune of the merchant Vozhevatov. Having lost to Knurov the opportunity to “take a ride” to Paris with Larisa, Vozhevatov is pleased: “I’m not at a loss: there are fewer expenses.” Even words of consolation were not found in his soul for his childhood friend. “The merchant’s honest word,” given to Knurov in a dishonest deal, more important than sympathy, compassion. And where do such feelings come from if “they have arithmetic instead of a soul.”
Ostrovsky’s heroes have lived on stage for almost a century and a half. The images of Knurov, Vozhevatov, Paratov are as recognizable in our time as they were at the dawn of commodity-money relations. They wear newfangled European suits, drive modern cars, and are going to an exhibition in Paris. And everyone thinks and thinks...

Essay on literature on the topic: Businessmen of a new formation in A. N. Ostrovsky’s play “Dowry”

Other writings:

1. The main character of A. N. Ostrovsky’s play “The Dowry” is Larisa Dmitrievna, the daughter of Kharita Ignatievna Ogudalova. Her mother has a “small fortune”; there is nothing to give a dowry of, since she lives openly, accepts everyone, “loves to live cheerfully herself.” Kharita Ignatievna is very dexterous: Read More ......
2. “Dowry” is one of the most significant plays of Ostrovsky’s last period - “Dowry” (1878) - and in some respects resembles “The Thunderstorm”. But there are perhaps more differences than similarities. Composition new play organized more strictly: all events occurring within one day are directly related to Read More......
3. The drama “Dowry” was written by A. N. Ostrovsky in 1879, when the results of the 1861 reform had already become clear. The “dark kingdom” has changed - trade and industry began to develop faster, the former savagery and ignorance familiar to us from “The Thunderstorm” no longer exists. In a new position Read More......
4. About A. N. Ostrovsky there is an image of the great Russian river Volga as a symbol of the beauty, strength and power of his native land. As if in a nightmare, the terrible faces of the “dark kingdom” surround us in Ostrovsky’s plays, and only the Volga freely carries its waters, absorbing Read More ......
5. This is where beauty leads (points to the Volga). Here, here, in the deep end. A. N. Ostrovsky. “Thunderstorm” Throughout the entire work of A. N. Ostrovsky, the image of the great Russian river Volga runs through as a symbol of the beauty, strength and power of his native land. Like in a nightmare, they are surrounded by Read More......
6. A. N. Ostrovsky’s play “Dowry” depicts a new era that began in Russia in the second half of the 19th century. Patriarchal relations are being replaced by capitalism with its cult of money, profit, and commodity-money philosophy. Forced to exist in this world main character plays - Larisa Ogudalova. Read More......
7. The action of the play “Dowry” unfolds against the backdrop of the Volga expanses. The landscape emphasizes the beauty and poetry of Larisa Dmitrievna Ogudalova’s character (the name Larisa means “seagull” in Greek). From the conversation between Knurov and Vozhevatov we learn that Larisa is an intelligent girl, subtly and deeply Read More ......
8. The work of A. N. Ostrovsky belongs to the peaks of Russian classical and world drama. One of the pearls is his play “Dowry”. At the center of the play is the fate of its heroine, Larisa Dmitrievna Ogudalova. Larisa took over everything: beauty, intelligence, noble manners. “Yes, sir, she has talents Read More......

They have arithmetic instead of soul.
A. N. Ostrovsky

The play “Dowry” is Ostrovsky’s fortieth original work, on which the experienced playwright worked for an unusually long time - four years. For the first time, he brought new heroes to the stage in his play - industrialists, shipowners, and businessmen of a new formation who appeared with the birth and development of capitalism in Russia.

Mokiy Parmenych Knurov is “a major businessman of modern times with a huge fortune.” Vasily Danilych Vozhevatov is “a representative of a wealthy trading company.”

Sergei Sergeevich Paratov is “a brilliant gentleman, one of the shipowners.” These are the heroes of the new time.

The phrase “they have arithmetic instead of a soul” is pronounced in the play by Sergei Sergeich Paratov. This is how he characterizes the foreigners who serve on his ship. “They have a short soul,” he says with confidence in his own superiority. Yes, Paratov loves and knows how to live beautifully. He is witty, passionate, and knows how to appreciate beauty.

But he knows even better how to ask the price: “If I find a profit, I’ll sell everything, anything,” he admits to Knurov. – I have other matters and other calculations. I will marry a very rich girl and take gold mines as a dowry.” No matter how sorry he is to part with his freedom, with his cheerful life, gold mines are, without a doubt, more valuable and profitable. Knurov and Vozhevatov approve of the deal: after all, you really can’t marry Larisa, who is without a dowry!

Just have some fun with her one last time!

Vozhevatov also proudly says that he does not notice in himself that “what is called love.” But he knows well that “every product has a price,” and will not give away too much. Although Larisa Dmitrievna is an “expensive diamond,” she will not add to the fortune of the merchant Vozhevatov. Having lost to Knurov the opportunity to “take a ride” to Paris with Larisa, Vozhevatov is pleased: “I’m not at a loss: there are fewer expenses.”

Even words of consolation were not found in his soul for his childhood friend. The “honest merchant word” given to Knurov in a dishonest deal is more important than sympathy and compassion. And where do such feelings come from if “they have arithmetic instead of a soul.”

Ostrovsky’s heroes have lived on stage for almost a century and a half. The images of Knurov, Vozhevatov, Paratov are as recognizable in our time as they were at the dawn of commodity-money relations. They wear newfangled European suits, drive modern cars, and are going to an exhibition in Paris.

And everyone thinks and thinks...

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4. Main characters: Kharita Ignatievna Ogudalova is a middle-aged widow. Larisa Dmitrievna is her daughter. Mokiy Parmenych Knurov is a big businessman, old man with a huge fortune. Vasily Danilych Vozhevatov is one of the representatives of a wealthy trading company. Yuliy Kapitonich Karandyshev is a poor official. Sergei Sergeevich Paratov is a brilliant master of the shipowners. The action takes place in the city of Bryakhimov, […]...
5. The play “Dowry” was written in the late 70s of the 19th century. It was a time of triumph for the nouveau riche - wealthy merchants. People were increasingly influenced by money, which overshadowed true values. We see the tragic consequences of this when we turn to the fate of the main character of the drama. Larisa is a soft, pure girl. She is able, first of all, to feel beauty, she is gifted with artistic talent – ​​[...]
6. Sergei Sergeevich Paratov is a “brilliant gentleman, one of the shipowners,” a handsome and impressive man, slightly over thirty. Paratov gives the impression of a chic playmaker, and in the finale of the play he turns out to be an ordinary dowry hunter of rich merchants. Paratov’s features, which Larisa admires so much, are in fact an empty deception. Behind the hero's brilliant appearance lies a lack of sincere emotion and clarity […]...
7. Ostrovsky wrote a wonderful play “Dowry”. It describes the life of one beautiful, young and beautiful girl– Larisa Dmitrievna Ogudalova, who turned out to be a victim of unfortunate circumstances. “Dowry” is similar in meaning to the drama “The Thunderstorm”. In these plays, even the main characters are similar in character and the plays end equally tragically. And we, of course, feel very sorry for both heroines. If Katerina dies from [...]
8. This is where beauty leads (points to the Volga). Here, here, in the deep end. A. N. Ostrovsky. “Thunderstorm” Throughout the entire work of A. N. Ostrovsky, the image of the great Russian river Volga runs through as a symbol of the beauty, strength and power of his native land. As if in a nightmare, the terrible faces of the “dark kingdom” surround us in Ostrovsky’s plays, and only the Volga freely carries its waters, [...]
9. A. N. Ostrovsky’s play “Dowry” depicts a new era that began in Russia in the second half of the 19th century. Patriarchal relations are being replaced by capitalism with its cult of money, profit, and commodity-money philosophy. The main character of the play, Larisa Ogudalova, is forced to exist in this world. This is a sensitive girl with open minded who knows how to love and appreciate beauty, the beautiful. The heroine is looking for the real [...]
10. 1. Life priorities of merchants. 2. The mask and inner essence of Paratov. 3. Kharita Ignatievna Ogudalova and Larisa. 4. Karandyshev and his life priorities. A. N. Ostrovsky’s play “Dowry” is one of the works that will hardly ever lose its relevance and modernity. Although the plot of the play belongs to its time, the essence of the characters' characters, their life principles are very tenacious. In the images […]...
11. 1. Calculation and feelings, their role in the development of the plot. 2. The image and fate of Larisa Ogudalova. 3. Representatives of the business world in the play. 4. The drama of injured pride: Yuliy Karandyshev. In the play “Dowry,” A. N. Ostrovsky clearly demonstrated that the main driving force in society is money. They are the ones who give a person the opportunity to manage others, to feel confident and independent: [...]
12. Human! We must respect the Man! A. M. Gorky “Dowry” is one of the best plays by A. N. Ostrovsky. She is constantly on stage and has been filmed twice. Modern reader and the viewer in this drama is attracted by everything: the brightness of the images, and the deep psychological analysis, and an inspired affirmation of the need for pure relationships between people. The action of the play unfolds against the backdrop of the Volga expanses. Scenery […]...
13. It is no coincidence that Ostrovsky awarded the surname Vozhevatov to one of significant heroes plays "Dowry". The word “leader” used to be generally understood; it was the name given to rich and wealthy people. Vasily Danilych Vozhevatov is a young man dressed in European style and is a representative of a wealthy trading company. This is a typical representative of the merchant class of the nineteenth century. He is prudent and practical, money plays a major role in his life. Vozhevatov’s attitude […]...
14. Ostrovsky wrote the drama “Dowry” in 1879, that is, in the last, third period of his work. Before this, the playwright had already created the plays “The Thunderstorm” and “Warm Heart”. These three dramatic works by Ostrovsky are united by a single theme. Katerina in “The Thunderstorm”, Parasha in “Warm Heart”, Larisa in “Dowry” - they all belong to the same type of woman, women with a rebellious soul. […]...
15. 1. What is the essence of Ostrovsky’s play? 2. Meet the heroine. 3. The moral character of merchants. 4. The tragedy of the heroine. The essence of A. N. Ostrovsky’s dramatic work “Dowry” is to show the contradictions of the surrounding reality through the fate of the heroes. The writer, penetrating into the life of the classes described, depicts his heroes in action, revealing them characteristic features. Main topic works by Ostrovsky – […]...
16. The action takes place in a large fictional city on the Volga - Bryakhimov. An open area near a coffee shop on Privolzhsky Boulevard. Knurov and Vozhevatov, having ordered champagne from a tea set, begin to discuss the news: the well-known beauty and homeless woman Larisa Ogudalova is marrying a poor official Karandyshev. Vozhevatov explains the modest marriage by the desire of Larisa, who experienced a strong infatuation with the “brilliant gentleman” Paratov, who turned […]...
17. In the work of A. N. Ostrovsky “Dowry”, each hero is seduced by something, be it money, love or social status. As for Karandyshev, he is seduced by the fact that thanks to his marriage to Larisa, he can improve his social status. Karandyshev is a petty official whom no one notices or respects. Yuliy Kapitonovich is sure that being next to such a woman [...]
18. Lyubov Alexander Nikolaevich Ostrovsky devoted four whole years to the creation of his play “Dowry.” Today, thanks to the sensational film, it is better known as “Cruel Romance.” The premiere performances of the play took place in the fall of 1878, but were not very successful. And only after the death of the author the work received universal recognition. The events take place in a fictional city on the Volga called Bryakhimov. They concern […]...
19. The drama “Dowry” became one of the pinnacles of Ostrovsky’s dramaturgy. In terms of the degree of drama and depth of psychologism, in terms of the nature of the conflict, it is compared to “The Thunderstorm”. Such a comparison makes it possible to experience new facets of the author’s talent and the development of his artistic talent. Each character in “The Dowry” is revealed with the utmost authenticity and convincingness. Yuliy Kapitonich Karandyshev and Sergei Sergeich Paratov, in fact, are representatives of different […]...
20. A special place in the system of images of the play is occupied by Larisa’s fiancé, Karandyshev. Of course, Paratov and Karandyshev are completely different people, but there is a connection between them. The poor little official wants to seem like a “brilliant master” - the same as Paratov: “In the office he nailed a penny carpet to the wall, hung daggers, Tula pistols...” - etc. Karandyshev also strives to play […]...
21. “Dowry” by A. N. Ostrovsky is, first of all, a drama about love. It was love that became the basis of the plot of this work and the source of internal contradictions of the main character, Larisa Ogudalova. In my opinion, love in “Dowry” is a symbolic, multi-valued concept. “I was looking for love and didn’t find it,” is Larisa’s bitter conclusion at the end of the play. I think she has in [...]
22. 1. The dreamy nature of Larisa Ogudalova. 2. Groom and lover. 3. The tragedy of Larisa as a woman in love. The main character of one of the most famous plays A. N. Ostrovsky “Dowry” - Larisa Dmitrievna Ogudalova, a young girl living in the ordinary Volga city of Bryakhimov with her mother, a widowed poor noblewoman. Larisa is naturally gifted with a sense of beauty; she has a soft, calm […]...
23. “Dowry” is a drama of the bourgeois era, and this circumstance has a decisive influence on its problems and genre. There is no longer an absolute confrontation between the heroine and the environment. Larisa's human talent, her spontaneous desire for moral purity, truthfulness - everything that comes from her richly gifted nature raises the heroine high above those around her. But Larisa’s everyday drama itself is the result of […]...
24. Gogol's poem “ Dead Souls” was written in the era of serfdom, which was main reason economic backwardness of Russia. Gradually, under the influence of the West, capitalist relations begin to emerge in Russia. Under these conditions, representatives of a new formation – entrepreneurs – emerged. Pavel Ivanovich Chichikov is one of the brightest and interesting characters poems. On the one hand, he is an enterprising person, [...]
25. Gogol’s poem “Dead Souls” was written during the era of serfdom, which was the main reason for the economic backwardness of Russia. Gradually, under the influence of the West, capitalist relations begin to emerge in Russia. Under these conditions, representatives of a new formation – entrepreneurs – emerged. Pavel Ivanovich Chichikov is one of the most bright and interesting characters of the poem. With one […]...
26. In his play “Dowry,” Ostrovsky brought out images of bourgeois society: big businessmen, millionaire industrialists, officials. But some topics do not depend on socio-historical conditions; they exist at any time and in any society. Such a theme has been developing in the works of Russian writers since early XIX V. becomes the theme “ little man" And in the play “Dowry” it finds its development in […]...
27. A. N. Ostrovsky, an outstanding Russian playwright, had a unique skill in comprehending and conveying the deepest human feelings, aspirations, and dreams. All his works are marked by unique psychologism and truthfulness. Anytime life situation, especially in the tragic, he found the very essence and skillfully reflected it in his plays. Ostrovsky’s best dramatic work is rightfully considered the play “The Dowry […]...
28. WHAT IS THE REASON FOR THE LIFE DRAMA OF THE HEROINE OF A. N. OSTROVSKY’S PLAY “THE DOWER”? The interest in national identity in modern Russian life, characteristic of Ostrovsky in the 50s and early 60s of the 19th century, led the playwright to create a social and everyday tragedy, in the center of which is folk character exceptional brightness, integrity and strength. The conflict of this play has an epochal historical meaning. “Dowry” is a drama of bourgeois [...]
29. Russian literature 2nd half of the 19th century century The image of the “cruel world” in the dramaturgy of A. N. Ostrovsky. (Based on the play “The Thunderstorm” or “Dowry”) A. N. Ostrovsky was one of the central figures in the development of Russian drama of the 19th century. The play “The Thunderstorm” is of particular interest to readers, since it not only describes social and moral conflicts, but also gives enough […]...
30. The play “Dowry” was written in the 60-70s. 19th century. This was the heyday of A. N. Ostrovsky’s creative powers. Never before has a playwright's talent been revealed in such a multifaceted way. At this time, Ostrovsky mainly turned to modernity. The main theme of his plays is the denunciation of the bourgeoisie, which was formed in the era of the 60-70s of the 19th century, or more precisely, the depiction of the moral side of the representatives of this […]...
31. In this play, the merchants bear practically no resemblance to those we met in The Thunderstorm. These are businessmen of a new time, who have acquired an outward gloss of enlightenment. They are the owners of trading companies, not shops, they wear European suits instead of merchant clothes, they no longer live by Feklusha’s fables, but latest news from Parisian newspapers. It is no longer the power of authority and established traditions, [...]
32. The world of dramaturgy by A. N. Ostrovsky is diverse and interesting. Merchants, landowners, officials, students, actors and many other heroes look at us from the stage. They create a unique world in which people “lived, worked, saved, made money, went broke, fell in love, deceived, hoped...”. N. Dobrolyubov wrote that Ostrovsky created “plays of life.” And they were such because the plots were taken from […]...
33. Paratov Paratov Sergei Sergeich is one of the main characters of the play “The Dowry”, a brilliant gentleman from a ship owner of about 30 years old, Larisa’s lover. This is a real reveler, a brave playmaker, prominent and handsome man, a womanizer and heartthrob who is essentially a rich dowry hunter. Larisa Dmitrievna, a young and beautiful homeless woman, is madly in love with him, whose head he turned […]...
34. The drama “Dowry” became one of the pinnacles of Ostrovsky’s dramaturgy. In terms of the degree of drama and depth of psychologism, in terms of the nature of the conflict, it is compared to “The Thunderstorm”. Such a comparison makes it possible to experience new facets of the author’s talent, his artistic evolution. The psychologism of “The Dowry” is the psychologism of the great master. Each character is revealed with utmost authenticity and credibility. This play was written by a playwright who wisely rejected [...]
35. Act I The action takes place in the large Volga city of Bryakhimov. There is a coffee shop on the high bank of the Volga. The barman Gavrilo and his servant Ivan are preparing to receive regular visitors - merchants Mokiy Parmenych Knurov and Vasily Danilych Vozhevatov. They are famous for going for walks every morning “for exercise,” and then drinking special tea - champagne. It must be poured from […]...
36. History of creation. Ostrovsky devoted more than four years of work to the drama “The Dowry,” his fortieth work, finishing it in the most thorough manner. “Dowry”, written in 1879, marked new level creative evolution of the artist. The Play continues to develop themes and issues typical of Ostrovsky. By how different the pictures of morals of the Volga cities of Kalinov and Bryakhimov are, how the key […]...
37. I am a thing, not a person! A. N. Ostrovsky Main conflict The play “Dowry” is determined by its very name. The tragedy of Larisa Dmitrievna Ogudalova is precisely that she is homeless. Beauty, intelligence, charm, human dignity mean nothing in this world if you don't have money. Reading the list characters, we draw attention to the exceptional importance […]...
38. “Dowry” is a psychological drama of the great Russian writer Alexander Ostrovsky, which cannot leave any human heart indifferent. The author shows us the life of an ordinary provincial town on the Volga. Unfortunately, here all moral values ​​are measured only by money. In the center of events is Olga’s wedding, which her mother decided to marry to a rich, unloved man. Everyone is having fun, gypsies […]...
39. “Dowry” (1878) is considered the best psychological drama by A. N. Ostrovsky. In this play, the playwright addresses the life of the new, bourgeois Russia. Ostrovsky focuses on the life of people of many classes: nobles, merchants, officials. In the post-reform years, dramatic changes took place in society: nobles, even the richest, gradually went bankrupt, merchants turned into masters of life with a fortune of millions, their [...]
40. Larisa Ogudalova, the main character of the play, is a young girl living with her mother, a widowed noblewoman. Larisa is a sensual, soft and calm girl; her mother’s plans to marry him off to a wealthy and decent person are alien to her. The girl is waiting for real, sincere love and finds it with the former landowner, shipowner Sergei Sergeevich Paratov. In the “secular” environment of Larisa’s mother, money has the greatest value, [...]

Gradually, the intonation of critical reviews of “The Thunderstorm” changed. The first positive response to Ostrovsky’s new play was the article A. Gieroglyfova, who assessed the drama as folk, highlighting the most typical phenomena of Russian life. “The nationality,” he wrote, “is felt in every word, in every scene, in every personality of the drama.” He especially noted the protest beginning in Katerina, and main feature He called it “freshness and strength of instincts and feelings.” In Katerina’s face he saw “a bright ray in the dark sky.”

Critic of "Russian newspaper" M. Darachan, based on Dobrolyubov’s article “ Dark Kingdom“, defined the idea of ​​“The Thunderstorm”: “Hatred of tyranny, the bitter protest of a free spirit against our lack of respect for our own dignity, for our personality, indignation at the slavery of our spirit...” In the critic’s opinion, “consciousness” came out especially significant in the drama the causes of evil, to which the downtrodden natures of the dark kingdom are already coming.” Polemicizing with Palkhovsky, Darachan asserted the high artistry of Ostrovsky's new play as a drama.

Sovremennik magazine greeted “The Thunderstorm” as a huge victory for the playwright. She was named outstanding folk work Russian literature, and its main character is Ostrovsky's most poetic creation. “And finding poetry in the everyday life in which Katya was born is not an easy task,” wrote the New Poet (I. Panaev). The article noted, in addition to the playwright’s great talent, his deep knowledge of folk life and love for the Russian people.

P. I. Melnikov-Pechersky(Northern Bee magazine) revealed the connection between the customs of the “dark kingdom” of wild and wild boars and the principles of Domostroy, and noted that in “The Thunderstorm” “the protest against tyranny is heard from the lips of every victim... But Kuligin’s protest is strongest.”

According to the critic M. Dostoevsky,"Thunderstorm" is one of best works Ostrovsky; in the drama “new aspects of Russian life” are given, “new motives” are heard, the gallery of Russian women created by the playwright was decorated with new characters, and his Katerina, the old woman Kabanova, Varvara, even Feklusha will occupy a prominent place in it.” However, M. Dostoevsky argued that Katerina does not carry the beginnings of activity and protest: “she is a woman of high poetic impulses, but at the same time weak. This inflexibility of beliefs and frequent betrayal of them constitutes its entire tragedy.” Katerina is a victim of “her own purity and her own beliefs,” she “would have died without despotism.”

Following the first publications, large critical articles about the drama "The Thunderstorm" Ap. A. Grigoriev “After Ostrovsky’s “Thunderstorm”. Letters to Ivan Sergeevich Turgenev" (1860), N. A. Dobrolyubova “A Ray of Light in the Dark Kingdom”(1860) and four years later an article D. I. Pisarev “Motives of Russian drama.” The controversy surrounding "Groza" continued.

A. N. Ostrovsky and the Russian National Theater

An analysis of the playwright’s first plays allowed N.A. Dobrolyubov to recognize his extraordinary talent and note that Ostrovsky’s plays are “not comedies of intrigue and not comedies of character per se, but something new, to which we would give the name “plays of life.” New genre dramas - “plays of life”, discovered by Ostrovsky in practice and theoretically substantiated by Dobrolyubov in his article “The Dark Kingdom”, contributed to an even closer approach of the stage to modernity. Critics N.A. Dobrolyubov and Ap. A. Grigoriev, who stood on opposite positions, saw in Ostrovsky’s works a holistic picture of the existence of the people. His dramas depicted all layers of Russian society and the life of Russia itself, from the 50s to the 80s of the 19th century. In historical chronicle plays, the playwright showed the distant past of his country, but the problems posed in them were relevant to modern times.

Comprehensive knowledge folk life, life, morals, deep organic connection with folk art represent characteristic features Ostrovsky the artist. His dramas became the basis of the theater repertoire, raised performing arts to the highest level.

Ostrovsky was confident that the playwright’s work in creating a national theater was a high public service. He was “a knight of the theater, undividedly devoted to one passion and for the sake of it, ready for any tests, for ascetic work devoid of quick reward” (V. Lakshin).

A decade and a half before the creation of the first play by A. N. Ostrovsky, V. G. Belinsky wrote in the article “Literary Dreams”: “Oh, how good it would be if we had our own, Russian folk theater!.. In fact - to see all of Rus' on stage, with its good and evil, with its lofty and funny…” The repertoire of the Russian stage in the 40s of the 19th century was indeed very poor. Several wonderful plays (“Minor” by D. I. Fonvizin, “Woe from Wit” by A. S. Griboyedov, “The Inspector General” by N. V. Gogol) were a brilliant exception against the background of little works of art, far from the real Russian reality. These were melodramas and vaudevilles, most often translated. Enriched theatrical repertoire plays by major Western European playwrights Shakespeare, Moliere, etc.

The creation of the Russian national, folk theater, which Belinsky dreamed of, is associated with the name of A. N. Ostrovsky. In connection with the 35th anniversary of the playwright’s work, I. A. Goncharov wrote in his welcoming speech: “You have brought a whole library of works of art as a gift to literature, and created your own special world for the stage. You alone completed the building at the foundation of which Fonvizin, Griboedov, and Gogol laid the cornerstones. But only after you, we Russians can proudly say: “We have our own Russian national theater.” It, in fairness, should be called: “Ostrovsky Theater”.

The Ostrovsky Theater is not only the number of plays (over forty), not counting those written in co-authorship, it is a new quality of dramaturgy, the creation of “its own special world” for the stage.

Ostrovsky's dramas give a true, lively picture of Russian life in the 50s-80s of the 19th century. The plays feature hundreds of characters, including merchants and nobles, officials of various degrees and ranks, bourgeois businessmen and landowners, commoners, actors, historical figures, residents of the fabulous Berendey kingdom; morally ugly natures whose main passion is money, and spiritually rich ones who have a “warm heart” and are capable of deep feelings. And all these people do not live in the playwright’s plays on their own, but become “in certain relationships with each other - property, family, service, companionship, friendship, hostility, love - as in life itself.” (E. Kholodov).

Ostrovsky began by opening for literature and theater “a country hitherto unknown in detail and not yet described by any traveler,” as he himself notes in his “Notes of a Zamoskvoretsky Resident” - this country, according to official news, lies directly opposite Kremlin, on the other side of the Moscow River, which is probably why it is called Zamoskvorechye.

Let's sum it up

1. Why, in your opinion, does I. A. Goncharov associate the birth of the Russian national theater with the name of A. N. Ostrovsky?

2. What “bitter truths, clothed in the form of art” were contained in the plays of A. N. Ostrovsky?

3. Which scenes in the drama “Dowry” made the strongest impression on you? How does Ostrovsky achieve such an impact on the reader? What is the tragedy of Larisa’s fate?

4. How does Ostrovsky depict the world of businessmen in “Dowry”? Using the text of the drama, trace Vozhevatov’s line of behavior, his actions and, based on them, make your own conclusion about the hero (if you wish, you can take other heroes - Knurov or Paratov).

5. “You will be superfluous,” Karandyshev says to Robinson. But is Robinson “superfluous” in Ostrovsky’s play? For what purpose is he introduced into the play? Why did the playwright need to bring together two figures alien to each other - Larisa and Robinson, in the last act, and place them side by side?

6. Why did Katerina choose death over life? Was strength or weakness of character demonstrated in this action?

7. Do you agree with N.A. Dobrolyubov’s statement that Boris is the same Tikhon, only educated?

8. Try to refute the judgments of critics who reacted negatively to A. N. Ostrovsky’s drama “The Thunderstorm”.

Essay topics

2. Katerina’s monologues and their role in revealing the character of the heroine (based on “The Thunderstorm” by A. N. Ostrovsky).

3. The role of antithesis in revealing the ideological content of the drama “The Thunderstorm” by A. N. Ostrovsky.

5. " Powerful of the world this” in the plays “The Thunderstorm” and “Dowry” by A. N. Ostrovsky.

Topics of reports and abstracts

1. The role of the title of the drama in revealing it ideological meaning(based on one of A. N. Ostrovsky’s plays).

The tragedy of a suffering soul in the world of businessmen (based on the drama by A. N. Ostrovsky "Dowry")

Tragedy... This word suggests death. At the end of the play, a wonderful, gifted, fragile girl, Larisa Ogudalova, dies. Her death is not accidental. The playwright consistently takes his heroine through suffering and shock, forcing her to experience all the bitterness of deceived love and the collapse of hopes for happiness.

What is the reason for this tragedy? A young girl from an impoverished noble family has a sensitive, loving soul, musical talent, and beauty. But this wealth cannot replace what is most valued in the world of businessmen - money, a dowry that would provide her with a worthy position in society. Discussing Larisa's upcoming marriage, Vozhevatov openly says that nowadays there are as many suitors as there are dowries, that is, every person is looking primarily for profit. Therefore, Larisa’s life turns, as Karandyshev puts it, into a gypsy camp. She is forced, by order of her enterprising mother, to be nice to rich bachelors, entertain numerous guests, attracting them with singing and beauty.

Larisa’s very first dialogue with her groom convinces us that she doesn’t like such a noisy, chaotic life. Her pure and honest nature strives for quiet family happiness with her loved one. Vozhevatov calls Larisa simple-minded, meaning by this definition not stupidity, but sincerity, lack of cunning, flattery and pretense. This girl has created her own world with her poetic imagination, into which music takes her. She sings beautifully, plays the guitar and piano, expressing her innermost feelings and experiences in the sounds of an ancient romance. Possessing a sublime poetic soul, Larisa perceives the people around her as heroes of a Russian romance, not seeing their vulgarity, cynicism, and greed. Paratov in her eyes is the ideal man, Karandyshev is an honest, humane person who is not understood by others, Vozhevatov is a close childhood friend. But all these heroes turn out to be different; they reveal their true nature in their relationship to Larisa. The brilliant Paratov turns out to be an ordinary seducer who destroys a loving girl for the sake of fleeting pleasure. He, without hesitation, leaves her to marry the owner of the gold mines. With cynical frankness, he admits to Knurov that there is nothing cherished for him, that he is ready to sell anything for profit. And he really proves this with action: he sells “Swallow” and abandons his beloved girl. This means that all of Paratov’s actions are driven by the desire for wealth and profit. This is the life position of the other characters in the play, because all their relationships are determined by a tight wallet. The conversations of the characters constantly come down to money, to buying and selling. Let us recall the remarkable dialogue between Kharita Ignatievna Ogudalova and the wealthy merchant Knurov on the eve of Karandyshev’s dinner party. Mokei Permenych quite unequivocally offers Ogudalova to take care of her daughter. And his own mother listens to him with understanding and gratitude, actually accepting this proposal.

Perhaps the only person in the play for whom money does not play any role is Larisa. She values ​​in people not wealth, but kindness, honesty, and decency. That is why she decides to marry a poor official Karandyshev and go to the village with him. Having lost all hope of happiness with her loved one, she wants at least understanding and respect, an honest, worthy life. Unable to pretend, Larisa admits to her groom that she only wants to love him, because she is attracted by his modest family life that expects sympathy, tenderness and affection from him. She wants to believe that such an attitude from her future husband will cause her to reciprocate over time. But many of Karandyshev’s tactless remarks and his behavior convince us that this is not the person with a kind and sensitive soul who can make the heroine happy. This includes reproaches of the “gypsy camp”, and jealous quibbles about free conversation with Vasya Vozhevatov, and malicious envy of successful businessmen. The very ridiculous idea of ​​a dinner party is the result of painful wounded pride, envy, jealousy and vanity, which, in general, form the basis of his character. Karandyshev lacks sensitivity and love for the bride. Neither he nor Kharita Ignatievna pays attention to Larisa’s persistent requests for a modest and simple wedding. They are overcome by vanity thoughts about a magnificent celebration where the bride will shine with beauty and rich attire. And Larisa utters almost prophetic words here: “I see that I am a doll for you; if you play with me, you will break me and throw me away.” At the end of the drama, Karandyshev will find a more precise and cruel word that will hit Larisa like a slap in the face. This word is "thing". It is this that helps to understand the reason for the tragic fate of the heroine. She lives in a world where everything is bought and sold, including beauty, love, honor. All this is a product that has its own buyer. After all, Knurov and Vozhevatov are busily concluding a trade deal, playing Larisa toss. Bound by the “honest merchant word,” Vasily Vozhevatov, an old childhood friend, refuses her even pity and consolation in order to make way for the winning Knurov.

At the end of the drama, the shocked Larisa has an epiphany. She recognizes herself as a thing that the people around her can dispose of at their own discretion. The cruelty of this discovery evokes a desperate protest in the heroine, which is expressed in thoughts of suicide. But Larisa does not have the determination and will of Katerina, the strength and integrity of her character. She lacks the strength to give up her life. And she finds another way out - to challenge the painful world of self-interest and profit by accepting Knurov’s offer. In this case, it will at least become an expensive item for a rich owner. Such a decision means the moral death of the heroine, from which Karandyshev’s shot will save her. Last words Larisa is gratitude for the fact that she was spared humiliation and final fall. For her, like for Katerina Kabanova, there is no place in cruel world benefit, profit, deception and betrayal. Thus, Ostrovsky’s wonderful drama “Dowry” reveals the conflict of a pure, honest, spiritualized personality with a society where everything is subordinated to the powerful power of money.