Analysis of the captain's daughter. The Captain's Daughter - analysis of the work The main points in the Captain's Daughter

“The Captain's Daughter” has the right to be called one of the precious pearls in the necklace of masterpieces of prose that came from the pen of Pushkin. It’s as if an ancient tragedy is unfolding before us against the backdrop of the erupting Vesuvius, and this is not at all a pompous exaggeration. The background against which the story takes place is tragic and menacing: the bloody orgy of the peasant-Cossack uprising of 1773-1775, under the leadership of Emelyan Pugachev, the mutual bitterness of the parties committing everyday atrocities and the tender, trembling note of love, fidelity and devotion, stubbornly making its way through everything the cruelty of this time. Readable easily and in one breath, the story of the genius of Russian literature will never lose its relevance and the attractive power of a great book.

Among the works of Alexander Pushkin, this story about dramatic events Russian history It certainly takes its rightful place. And the reason for this is that storyline develops against the backdrop of historical events that shook the very foundations of society. And the 18th century (in which the action takes place), simply oversaturated with such processes, was a very recent past for Pushkin. We are talking about the peasant war of 1773-1775, led and led by the Cossack Emelyan Pugachev.

Written in the form of memoirs, the genre work can, however, be classified as a historical story. It has fourteen chapters (each with its own title), opening with the epigraph “Take care of honor from a young age,” which is moral core Pushkin's plan in this work.

The plot of the story is a story about the origin, family history and early years life of Pyotr Grinev. Pushkin is critical in his description of the Grinev family: for example, the father, Andrei Petrovich Grinev. is a typical example of a Russian landowner of the 18th and 19th centuries - lack of good education and tyranny. Accordingly, Peter did not receive a decent education, being destined for military service, which did not imply academic breadth of knowledge.

And yet, Pushkin is attracted to this simple, but decent and sensitive noble offspring. During the development of the plot, we will repeatedly be convinced of his innate nobility, loyalty to his word and duty. With the same measure of sympathy and warmth, Pushkin painted the images of the family members of Captain Mironov, the commandant of the fortress. A simple and sincere man, Captain Mironov (and, alas, his wife), nevertheless, in the face of death, displays qualities that make him a tragic and heroic figure.

And the daughter of the Mironovs, Masha, shows strength of character, courage and nobility of the highest standard, proving that she is worthy of her parents.

Pushkin's narrative is not complete without a scoundrel - Lieutenant Shvabrin, the usual type of guards officer - a gambler, a libertine, a duelist. Finding himself in the Orenburg wilderness, he most likely became even more embittered. This is confirmed by his relationship with Grinev, who sympathized with Shvabrin and, nevertheless, received dirty gossip about Masha and was wounded in a duel. And the subsequent transition to Pugachev’s side makes Pushkin completely disgusted with this character of his.

At the same time, the image of Pugachev in the story cannot be reduced to any one denominator. Of course, this is caused primarily by censorship and class restrictions: from the point of view of the authorities and the nobility, Pugachev is a villain. But the power of Ataman’s personality, his generosity and wisdom cannot but charm Pushkin, who reveals, albeit in passing and partially, the causes of the uprising. What attracts Pushkin’s story, even after more than two centuries, is the understanding that this is not an uprising of cattle that needs to be hanged and drowned, but a reaction to inhuman conditions of existence. A reaction that united such different and seemingly alien representatives of social groups as peasants crushed by extortion and free Cossacks, Afanasy Sokolov, better known as the legendary Khlopusha, a faithful comrade-in-arms of Pugachev, and by origin a Novgorod peasant, who by 1774 had gone through all circles of hell, disfigured by brands burned on the face and torn out nostrils and mutilated Bashkirs from the Ural wilds and many, many others who came to Pugachev.

After the epigraph and the beginning of the plot, Pushkin clearly shows double climax: first-capture of the fortress and execution of the commandant with his wife and second— Masha’s trip to the Empress of St. Petersburg.

These events are followed by a denouement: the pardon of Grinev and his presence at the execution of Emelyan. After which the story ends with an epilogue.

To complete the analysis, we present summary stories:

Chapter 1. Sergeant of the Guard

The story begins with the story of Pyotr Grinev’s family: his father, Andrei Petrovich, retired with the rank of private major; there were nine children in the family, but no one survived except Peter. Even before birth, the boy was enrolled as a sergeant in the Semenovsky Guards Regiment. The boy is raised by “uncle” Savelich, their serf stirrup, under whose guidance the boy masters the basics of literacy and learns to “judge the merits of a greyhound dog.” In order to teach “languages ​​and all sciences,” the father hires the Frenchman Beaupre, a French drunkard. After some time, the Frenchman is kicked out, after which it is decided to send his son to serve as a real nobleman. But instead of St. Petersburg, to Petya’s disappointment, he will serve in one of the Ural fortresses. On the way to Orenburg, Petya spends the night at a hotel in Simbirsk, where he meets the hussar captain Ivan Zurin. The hussar talks him into playing billiards, gets him drunk and easily wins 100 rubles from him. Ignoring Savelich’s hysteria, young Grinev gives Zurin the money, out of stubbornness and self-affirmation.

Chapter 2. Explorer

On the way, in the steppe, Peter gets into a storm. The travelers fall into panic, but a stranger emerges from the wall of the snowy wind, joking and teasing the travelers, shows them the way and leads them to an inn, where he talks to the owner on a hairdryer, which reveals him to be a dashing man. In the morning, Grinev leaves, thanking the guide with a hare sheepskin coat, and in Orenburg he meets with General Andrei Karlovich, his father’s colleague, and goes, on his orders, to the border Belogorsk fortress, about forty kilometers from Orenburg.

Chapter 3. Fortress

The fortress, which turned out to be a small village in the middle of the Kazakh steppes, is commanded by Commandant Mironov, whose family Peter meets. Grinev is captivated by Lieutenant Shvabrin, who was expelled from the Guards regiment in St. Petersburg for a duel, with his daring.

Chapter 4. Duel

Very soon, in the absence of other girls, Grinev falls in love with the daughter of Commandant Mironov, Masha. Shvabrin, angrily jealous, slanderes Masha, which is why the enraged Grinev challenges Shvabrin to a duel, where he is wounded.

Chapter 5. Love

Grinev’s young body easily copes with the injury and he recovers. Understanding Shvabrin’s motives, Grinev does not hold a grudge against him in his heart. Petya proposes marriage to Masha and receives the girl’s consent. After which he, in euphoria, writes to his father, asking for blessings. The father, having learned about the duel, about the life of his son, his, as he considers, excessive independence, gets angry and refuses the blessing, once again confirming his primitive tyranny.

Chapter 6. Pugachevism

Along the way, tension begins to build in the narrative: the commandant receives information from Orenburg about the “rebellion” of Emelyan Pugachev and orders all officers in the fortress to prepare for a siege. Rebel scouts are active around the fortress. One of them, a mute Bashkir, is captured, but cannot be interrogated. Frightened for the fate of his child, Commandant Mironov tries to send Masha from the fortress to her relatives.

Chapter 7. Attack

However, the plan to save the daughter is disrupted, as the fortress is surrounded by rebels. The commandant, anticipating the sad outcome of the battle, says goodbye to the family, ordering at least to dress Masha as a peasant in order to save her life. After capturing the fortress, the Pugachevites execute the commandant and his wife and intend to hang Grinev, but the devoted Savelich, amusing Pugachev, saved the life of the young master.

Chapter 8. Uninvited Guest

Pugachev, thanks to Savelich’s reminder, recognizes in Grinev the donor of the “rabbit sheepskin coat.” Peter does not recognize the leader of the rebels as a guide until his uncle reminds him. Pugachev tries to persuade Grinev to serve him, but he resolutely refuses. This makes a strong impression on Pugachev and he promises to let Grinev go.

Chapter 9. Separation

The next morning, Grinev sets off with an oral message from Pugachev to the generals in Orenburg. Savelich's attempt to obtain compensation for damages from Pugachev ended with threats from the “tsar”. Grinev leaves in a gloomy mood, because Shvabrin became the commandant of the fortress from Pugachev.

Chapter 10. Siege of the city

Arriving in Orenburg, Grinev conveys to the general everything he knows about Pugachev and then comes to the military council. Grinev calls for a more decisive crackdown on the rebels, but this ardor irritates the generals. The so-called “bribery tactics” predominate. They agree to wait, sitting on the defensive. Soon Orenburg finds itself under siege. During one of the reconnaissance missions in the outskirts of Orenburg, Grinev receives a letter from Masha. It is permeated with despair. Shvabrin forces her to marry. Grinev begs the general to give him Cossacks and soldiers to recapture Masha from Shvabrin, but is refused and begins to look for a way out of the situation.

Chapter 11. Rebel settlement

Having not come up with anything better, Grinev secretly leaves Orenburg and goes to the Belogorsk fortress. In the vicinity of the fortress, Peter and Savelich are captured by the rebels and are taken to Pugachev. Having learned the essence of the matter, that Grinev came to save the bride from Shvabrin, Pugachev takes part in the fate of the young people. Petya naively tries to persuade Pugachev to surrender. To which Pugachev recalls a parable about an eagle that eats fresh meat and a raven that eats carrion, hinting that he is an eagle.

Chapter 12. Orphan

Arriving at the Belogorsk fortress, Pugachev orders Shvabrin to show him Masha. Shvabrin obeys and then Pugachev finds out that he actually held Masha as a prisoner. The chieftain lets the girl go with Peter, turning a blind eye to Grinev’s lies regarding Masha’s origins.

Chapter 13. Arrest

On the way back from the fortress, the young people are stopped by soldiers from the guard post. Fortunately for Petit, the boss turned out to be Captain Zurin. Ivan Zurin dissuades Grinev from returning to Orenburg and keeps him with him, sending his bride to the Grinev family estate. Left alone, Peter and the hussars marched against the Pugachevites. During the hussars' pursuit of the rebels, Grinev sees the devastation and ruin caused by the peasant war. Suddenly, one day, Zurin receives an order to arrest Grinev and send him to Kazan.

Chapter 14. Court

Officials of the Investigative Commission sitting in Kazan greeted Grinev’s explanations with contemptuous disbelief. The judges found Peter guilty of friendship with the “imposter Emelka.” Moreover, the main witness for the prosecution was Shvabrin, who was also arrested, and slandered Peter with false fabrications. Grinev is sentenced to hard labor. In despair Captain's daughter Masha Mironova decides to go to St. Petersburg and beg for justice from Empress Catherine II. In Tsarskoe Selo, in one of the parks, Masha meets an unfamiliar lady, to whom she tells her story. The lady consoles Masha and promises to convey it to the empress. Later, Masha realizes that it was Catherine II herself when she arrives at the palace and sees the empress. Grinev was pardoned. The narrative, conducted on behalf of Grinev, ends with Pushkin’s afterword, where he describes first the release by personal order of Catherine, and then Grinev’s presence in January 1775 at the execution of Pugachev, who nodded to Peter before putting his head under the executioner’s ax...

Missing chapter

It tells about Grinev's (aka Bulanin) visit to his father's house, located not far from the village where his parents and fiancee lived. With the commander's permission, he swam across the Volga and sneaked into the village. Here Grinev learns that his parents are locked in the barn. Grinev frees them, but at this time Savelich brings news of a group of Pugachevites under the command of Shvabrin entering the village. Grinev locks himself in the barn. Shvabrin orders it to be set on fire, which drives the Grinev father and son out of hiding. The Grinevs are captured, but at this time the hussars, brought by Savelich, who slipped past the besiegers, burst into the village. Peter receives a blessing for marriage and returns to the regiment. Then he learns about Pugachev’s capture and returns to his village. Grinev is almost happy, but an unclear threat almost physically poisons this feeling.

In the 30s, Pushkin turned to the Troubled Times of the 18th century. to the Pugachev uprising (1773 - 1774). The writer studied the documents, and in 1833 he made a trip to the places where the uprising raged 60 years ago. He visited Nizhny Novgorod, Kazan, Simbirsk, Orenburg, Uralsk, Berdskaya Sloboda - the capital of Pugachev. For several months, Pushkin read new documents and met with people who remembered Pugachev. The writer completed his research with the creation of a historical essay “The History of Pugachev.”

The Emperor, who was the poet’s personal censor, found Pushkin’s work interesting, but he made 23 amendments and proposed calling it “The History of the Pugachev Rebellion.” Pushkin agreed with the amendment: “...The royal name, we admit, is more accurate,” he said.

In 1834, “History...” was published. And in 1836, the story “The Captain's Daughter” was published, which we will analyze.

Both works are written on the same historical material. But if in “History...” such a concept as “Pugachevism” is explored, then in “The Captain’s Daughter” the focus is on the fate of people caught in the whirlpool of a bloody rebellion.

Having conceived a work about Pugachev’s times, Alexander Sergeevich wanted to make the main character an officer who went over to Pugachev’s side. But after studying documents and eyewitness accounts, I realized that such an act was atypical for nobles.

The gap between the two Russias

Pugachev's rebellion essentially marked the gap between two Russias - noble and peasant (people's). Each of them had its own truth.

The people's camp was led by Pugachev, who called himself Tsar Peter III. In the story “The Captain's Daughter” by Pushkin, it is depicted that he, as befits a “tsar,” lives in a “palace” - a simple peasant hut, only covered with gold paper. His surroundings are also “royal” - “gentlemen enarals”, who in fact were simple men and Cossacks. On top of peasant sheepskin coats they have blue ribbons (blue ribbons indicated receipt of the Order of St. Andrew the First-Called - the highest order Russian Empire). This whole masquerade said better than any words that “sovereign” Pugachev himself and his “enars” are not at all who they say they are.

The people's king is merciless towards the nobles. With extraordinary ease (“waved a white handkerchief”) he sends them to the gallows. This is exactly how he dealt with Captain Mironov. But at the same time, Pugachev considers it his duty to protect (like every king in folk tale) weak and offended. He even takes Masha Mironova, the daughter of his enemy, under his protection...

And Pugachev himself and his entire rebellious camp are flesh of the flesh of the people. This was especially evident in their speeches and songs. Pugachev’s speech is peppered with proverbs, sayings, and popular expressions: “execute like that, execute like that, favor like that,” “go to all four directions,” “a debt is worth paying,” “I’ll have mercy on you this time.”

The Pugachevites are opposed by the noble camp. In the story these are “old people” - the Grinevs, Mironovs, Savelich, inhabitants of the Belogorsk fortress. Pushkin describes them with sympathy and sympathy.

And so a conflict broke out between these social strata... In the struggle that they are waging, there is no room left for personal kindness - it is swallowed up by class hatred.

The destinies of the heroes, composition "The Captain's Daughter"

Against the backdrop of the bloody events of the peasant war, the fates of ordinary people - the Grinevs and Mironovs - are revealed. And above all, young Petrusha Grinev. The maturation of this carefree boy is happening rapidly.

The trials and misadventures that befall the hero make up the plot of the story. Exhibition of the work- information about the Grinevs. We learn that Petrusha is from the provincial nobles, he received his education from Beaupre, a hairdresser from France, and his upbringing from the eager Savelich, and until the age of seventeen he chased pigeons. And then his father sends him to serve in the army. On the way to his place of duty, fate brings Grinev together with a runaway Cossack, who later turns out to be Pugachev. Meeting him - the beginning of the action. And then comes his development: Pyotr Grinev came to the Belogorsk fortress and fell in love with the daughter of the commandant of the fortress, Mironov. The capture of the Belogorsk fortress by the Pugachevites and the execution of officers is the climax of the plot. Here each of the heroes shows himself in his true light. One of the officers - Shvabrin - turned out to be a traitor. Grinev was pardoned by Pugachev, who remembered that at their first meeting Peter gave him a hare sheepskin coat, saving him from the winter cold. In this situation, Pugachev, of course, deviates from his rules and acts according to his heart. Despite Emelyan’s mercy, Grinev refuses to go over to the side of the rebels, which indicates his inner strength and steadfastness of moral principles.

Peter lives by the law of folk wisdom, inspired by his father: “Take care of your honor from a young age.” The young officer twice refuses the offers of his savior, but Pugachev, showing generosity, saves Masha Mironova from Shvabrin’s persecution and releases him with Grinev.

It would seem that this is the end of all horrors - the heroes are saved. But that was not the case. Life, displaced by a phenomenon as terrible in its power and mercilessness as a popular revolt, cannot quickly return to its previous framework. Therefore, Grinev had to go through another terrible test - arrest and accusation in association with Pugachev.

He could justify himself, but his honor and dignity do not allow him to mention the name of Masha Mironova in this story. Protecting her from possible suspicions, Grinev practically admits himself guilty without guilt.

Peter saves the honor and life of Masha Mironova. She also saves him when she turns to Empress Catherine II with a request to pardon Grinev. The mirror nature of the actions of Pyotr Grinev and Masha Mironova speaks of the commonality of their moral principles. Despite the terrible upheavals in society, they remained unshakable.

The queen has mercy on Grinev. That is, she, like Pugachev once did, acts not according to the law, but according to her heart.

The denouement of the plot and the completion of the story- the family happiness of Pyotr Andreevich Grinev and Maria Ivanovna Mironova and the execution of Pugachev. With this ending, Pushkin expressed his belief in the saving power of truth, mercy and love in a “cruel age,” both for the individual and for society as a whole.

Analysis of Pushkin's "The Captain's Daughter" helps to better understand and understand the famous historical novel by Alexander Pushkin. It tells about the uprising of Emelyan Pugachev. The novel was first published in 1836, it was published in the Sovremennik magazine.

Plot of the novel

To do detailed analysis"The Captain's Daughter", you need to know the plot of this work well. The work is written in the form of memoirs of the elderly landowner Pyotr Grinev about the turbulent events of his youth.

He tells how at the age of 16 his father sent him to serve in the army.

On the way to his place of duty, he accidentally meets Emelyan Pugachev, who was then a fugitive Cossack, just thinking about a large-scale uprising. They meet during a snowstorm, Pugachev agrees to accompany Grinev along with his elderly servant to the inn, so as not to perish in the elements. As a token of gratitude, Grinev gives him his sheepskin coat.

For service main character resides in the Belogorsk fortress. Almost immediately he falls in love with the commandant's daughter Masha Mironova. His colleague Shvabrin is also partial to the girl and challenges Peter to a duel. During the fight he is wounded. His father finds out about the incident and refuses to bless this marriage.

Pugachev riot

The rebels also come to the Belogorsk fortress. Masha's parents are killed. Shvabrin demonstrates his essence by swearing allegiance to Pugachev, but Grinev refuses to do this. Peter is saved from execution by Savelich, who reminds Pugachev that this is the same young man who once gave him a hare sheepskin coat.

But Grinev still refuses to fight on the side of the rebels; he is released to besieged Orenburg. Peter begins to fight against Pugachev. One day he receives a letter from Masha, who, due to illness, was unable to leave the Belogorsk fortress. She writes that Shvabrin is forcing her to marry him.

Grinev rushes about, choosing between feeling and duty. As a result, he voluntarily leaves the unit, comes to Belogorye and, with the help of Pugachev, saves Masha. Soon, following Shvabrin’s denunciation, he is arrested by government troops. Grinev is awaiting sentencing in prison.

Masha is trying to do everything to prevent the death penalty for her lover. She goes to Tsarskoe Selo to receive Empress Catherine II. She accidentally meets the empress on a walk. Alone and without a retinue. She honestly tells the circumstances of the case, thinking that this is one of the empress's ladies-in-waiting.

Catherine II is impressed by this story. She lets Grinev go, he returns to his parents, and soon gets married to Masha. This is the summary of Pushkin's "The Captain's Daughter".

History of creation

This novel is a living response of Russian literature to the historical novels of Walter Scott, which were extremely popular in Russia at that time. It is worth noting that Pushkin planned to write a historical novel back in the 1820s. This is how “Arap of Peter the Great” appeared.

The first classic Russian historical novel is considered to be “Yuri Miloslavsky” by Mikhail Zagoskin. Literary scholars note the influence of Zagoskin on Pushkin. For example, a meeting with a counselor repeats one of the scenes from Yuri Miloslavsky.

The history of the creation of "The Captain's Daughter" is interesting. The idea for the novel came to Pushkin when he was working on the chronicle “The History of the Pugachev Rebellion.” For the sake of documentary information, he specially traveled to the Southern Urals and met with eyewitnesses of those terrible years.

Initially, Pushkin intended to make the main character of the novel the real officer Mikhail Shvanvich, who went over to Pugachev’s side. But apparently, the plot about a nobleman who becomes a robber was realized by him in Dubrovsky. Therefore, this time Pushkin decided to turn to the memoir form, and make the main character an honest officer who remained faithful to the oath, despite the temptation to go over to the side of the rebels in order to save his life.

Analyzing the history of the creation of "The Captain's Daughter", many note that the scene of Masha's meeting with the Empress in Tsarskoe Selo was most likely invented by Pushkin after learning a historical anecdote about the mercy of the German King Joseph II towards the daughter of a low-ranking officer. The homely image of Catherine herself was obviously inspired by Utkin’s engraving.

Novel or story?

An important question that all researchers of Pushkin’s work ask is how to determine the genre of this work. "The Captain's Daughter" - a novel or a story? There is still no consensus on this issue.

Those who claim that this is a story insist that the work itself is very small in volume. This is an important formal sign that indicates belonging to the story. In addition, the events described cover a short period of time, which, as a rule, is not typical for a novel. Supporters of this hypothesis also point to the mediocrity of the personality of Pyotr Grinev, as well as his entourage, arguing that such heroes cannot be characters in a real novel.

In the debate about whether “The Captain's Daughter” is a novel or a story, there is a second point of view. Despite its small volume, researchers still note that the text raises a large number of serious issues and problems, covers important, eternal themes. Therefore, in terms of its semantic content, it can easily be classified as a novel, they believe.

There is still no clear answer to the question about the genre of this work.

Petr Grinev

One of the main characters in "The Captain's Daughter" is Grinev. At the time of the events described, he was only 17 years old. He is an undergrowth who, almost from birth, was enlisted in the Semenovsky Guard Regiment. At that time, this was done to young men in almost all noble families. Therefore, when they reached adulthood, they were sent to the army as officers.

Grinev appears to the reader with the rank of ensign. This is the main character on whose behalf the story is told. At the same time, it is mentioned that by that time the country was already ruled by Alexander I. The story is regularly interrupted by old-fashioned maxims.

Grinev's action in The Captain's Daughter, when he leaves Orenburg for the fortress captured by Pugachev, is still discussed. A Russian officer, faced with a choice between duty and feeling, chooses the latter. He actually deserts, leaving his duty station, and receives help from the rebel leader. All this for the love of a girl.

It is noteworthy that the original version contained information that Grinev died in 1817, but then Pushkin got rid of this fact. Belinsky characterizes Grinev's character as insensitive and insignificant. A well-known critic believes that Pushkin needed him only as an impartial witness to Pugachev’s actions.

Masha Mironova

Masha Mironova in "The Captain's Daughter" is the main female character. Pushkin describes her as an 18-year-old girl with light brown hair, ruddy and chubby. She is the daughter of the commandant of the Belogorsk fortress, where Grinev comes to serve.

At first, she seems weak and spineless, but her true colors are revealed when Masha goes to the capital, to the empress, to ask for Grinev’s life. Prince Vyazemsky, giving an analysis of "The Captain's Daughter", notes that the image of this heroine is a peculiar variation on the theme of Tatyana Larina.

But Tchaikovsky didn’t think much of her interesting character, but at the same time an honest and kind girl. Marina Tsvetaeva expresses herself even more harshly about Masha Mironova in “The Captain's Daughter” - “the empty place of every first love.”

Alexey Shvabrin

The antagonist of Pyotr Grinev in the work "The Captain's Daughter" is the young officer Alexey Ivanovich Shvabrin. Pushkin describes him as a short and dark officer with a remarkably ugly face.

When Grinev finds himself in the Belogorsk fortress, the character of “The Captain’s Daughter” Shvabrin has been serving there for five years. He ended up in this distant division because of a duel. He was transferred from the guard. As we see, the punishment did not teach this hero anything, since he soon calls another opponent to the barrier. This time Grinev himself.

In the fortress, Shvabrin from “The Captain’s Daughter” is considered by many to be a freethinker. At the same time, he is well versed in literature and speaks French fluently. But when one of the decisive moments in his life comes, he has to choose which side to take, he betrays his oath and goes over to the side of the rebels, Pugachev’s troops. Subsequently, he uses his position for selfish purposes, forcing Masha Mironova, who remained an orphan in the fortress, to marry him.

According to many literary critics, is a classic romantic rascal.

Emelyan Pugachev

The figure of Emelyan Pugachev in “The Captain's Daughter” looks large-scale and colorful. For example, Marina Tsvetaeva, a big fan of Pushkin, saw in him the only real character works, considering that he completely overshadows the nondescript Grinev.

It is noteworthy that for a long time Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky harbored the idea of ​​staging an opera based on this work by Pushkin. But in the end he abandoned this idea. He decided that censorship would never allow this opera to pass because of the image of Pugachev in The Captain's Daughter. This character is written so powerfully that the viewer will be forced to leave the theater, fascinated by the rebel. Since Pushkin, according to Tchaikovsky, in the work “The Captain's Daughter” turned out to be a surprisingly sympathetic villain.

Epigraph of the novel

Researchers of Pushkin's work always attach great importance to the epigraph in The Captain's Daughter. It becomes the famous Russian proverb “Take care of your honor from a young age.”

It very accurately reflects what is happening to Pyotr Grinev. For this hero, events develop in such a way that he is forced to make one of the most difficult choices in his life. To act like an honest person or, afraid of mortal danger and possible punishment after that, to betray those closest to him and his ideals, in which he believed all these years.

Remembering the heroes of "The Captain's Daughter", we need to mention Peter's father, who mentors his son before leaving for the army. He calls on him to faithfully serve the one to whom he swore allegiance, to obey his superiors, not to chase approval without a reason, not to ask for service, but not to shirk from it, and also to remember the proverb “take care of your dress again, but take care of your honor from a young age.” This is how the father formulates the basic values ​​for Peter, pointing out what should be the most important in this life.

It is worth noting that not only upbringing, but also key character traits help Grinev fulfill his father’s orders. He is always sincere and directly tells people what he thinks about them. He saves Masha Mironova from Shvabrin, rescues his servant Savelich from the hands of Pugachev’s henchmen. At the same time, he remains true to his word and oath that he gave to the empress. This integrity conquers Pugachev. Because of her, he first lets Peter live, and then helps him leave with his beloved.

Grinev’s honesty and loyalty to the oath are especially clearly demonstrated against the background of Shvabrin. The latter is an educated and eloquent officer, but he thinks and cares only about himself. While remaining absolutely indifferent to others. To save his life, he easily renounces the oath and goes over to the enemy’s side. Such different characters in The Captain's Daughter.

Grinev's personality is made up of sincerity and a sense of duty. He tries exactly to follow the proverb that his father admonished and which is included in the epigraph of Alexander Sergeevich Pushkin’s novel “The Captain’s Daughter.” Moreover, we can observe a completely realistic hero who is at times afraid, doubts the correctness of his decisions, but still does not give up his convictions, committing truly heroic deeds for the sake of his loved ones and those close to him. For Grinev, in addition to duty and service, it is extremely important to always remain a person with a kind and loving heart who cannot tolerate injustice. Moreover, he tries to see only the good in those around him. Even in Pugachev, what primarily distinguishes him is his intelligence, generosity and courage, and the fact that he tries to act as a defender of the poor and disadvantaged.

In the work of Alexander Sergeevich Pushkin "The Captain's Daughter" the image of Pyotr Grinev is given in development. Each episode of the novel gives him the opportunity to show himself in one way or another.

Analysis of "The Captain's Daughter"

Analyzing this work, the first thing to note is that it is written in the form of memoirs. Its structure consists of 14 chapters, each of them has its own title and epigraph. The work is based on reality historical event- the uprising of Emelyan Pugachev, which occurred during the reign of Empress Catherine II from 1773 to 1775. Many of the problems of "The Captain's Daughter" that are raised in the work remain relevant to this day.

Let's take a closer look at the composition. In the beginning, Grinev briefly recalls his childhood and adolescence, about life in his parents’ house.

But there are two climaxes in the novel. In the first, Pugachev’s army captures the Belogorsk fortress. Many officers are executed, including Masha’s father, commandant Captain Mironov.

The second climax of the novel is the heroic rescue of Masha by Pyotr Grinev, who remained in the fortress in the power of Shvabrin. The denouement is the news of the pardon of the main character, which Masha Mironova achieved from the empress herself. The novel ends with an epilogue.

An important role in the novel is played by the vividly described picture of a spontaneous and merciless popular uprising. The author dwells in detail on the main reasons for this rebellion, its participants and followers. As often happens in Pushkin’s works, an important role is given to the people. For the writer, he is not some faceless mass that blindly follows the leader. Each representative of the people is a separate independent personality. At the same time, people unite with each other and follow a specific goal. As a result, Pugachev is supported by the Cossacks, Bashkirs, and peasants.

Delving into the characters' characters, it is worth noting that Pushkin attaches great importance to the upbringing and characters of the heroes. The author does not deliberately idealize the Grinev family. Thus, Grinev Sr. has an unstable character, but Peter, on the contrary, immediately evokes the reader’s sympathy. Even being at the beginning of his life’s journey, he sacredly remains faithful to his words and actions. He is a brave man who is not afraid of danger, which is why he commands respect from most of the readers of this novel.

It is interesting that Pushkin describes the Mironov family not without irony. The author endows Masha with a courageous and simple character, a pure heart and, most importantly, high moral principles.

Only one character evokes obvious hostility - the slanderer Shvabrin. Very soon the reader learns that he is capable of betrayal and denunciation and does not follow his oath at all. The image of the rebel leader Pugachev is majestic and tragic.

Readers are captivated by the simple and laconic language in which this work is written. This makes the events described as true as possible.

"The Captain's Daughter" in literature lessons

I'M GOING TO CLASS

Elena Starodubtseva

Starodubtseva Elena Anatolyevna(1966) - school teacher in the village of Donskoye, Stavropol Territory.

"The Captain's Daughter" in literature lessons

Lesson 1. The first chapter of the novel

Target. Using the example of the novel by A.S. Pushkin's "Dubrovsky" to find out the poet's attitude to the Russian revolt; compare the images of Fonvizin’s undergrowth and Pushkin’s; understand what the atmosphere was like in the Grinevs’ house and what the significance of the image of the hero’s father is in the story; develop students’ ability to analyze a text and relate it to other works; discussion of the content and meaning of the concept of “honor”; develop skills in working with dictionaries.

Lesson progress

I. Review questions

1. Against the background of what historical event does the narrative unfold in the novel?

2. What work of Pushkin preceded the creation of “The Captain's Daughter”?

II. Introductory talk

Before you begin to study the novel “The Captain's Daughter,” remember in what other novel Pushkin depicted a peasant revolt? Who was at the head of this revolt?

In the novel “Dubrovsky,” Pushkin showed a peasant revolt, the cause of which was a court decision: the peasants of Dubrovsky were to take over the ownership of Troekurov. The leader of this rebellion was the young Vladimir Dubrovsky.

Let me remind you that the novel “Dubrovsky” was written in 1832, but was not completed. To find out why, let's remember the main motives of the novel.

An insult inflicted on a nobleman, the death of a father, a thirst for revenge, a band of robbers, a noble leader of robbers.

What literary movement are these motifs based on?

Features of Romanticism. There is a echo with Byron's poem "The Corsair".

The novel ends with Dubrovsky disbanding the bandit gang and leaving abroad. Why did the novel end at this point?

Firstly, by this time Pushkin stood firmly on a realistic position and the novel “Dubrovsky” is a realistic work. Secondly, Dubrovsky is a nobleman. He could not be a robber and leader of rebellious peasants. He just played this role while the thirst for revenge burned within him. But when this role lost its meaning, he leaves the robber environment. Dubrovsky is honest, noble, generous. These qualities are incompatible with robbery, rebellion and robbery.

Conclusion. Main idea Pushkin is that an honest and noble nobleman cannot be on the side of the rebellious peasants. The concepts of noble honor are incompatible with robbery. Let's remember this thought and move on to the novel "The Captain's Daughter."

III. First chapter of the novel

What is this novel in form?

These are the memories of Pyotr Andreevich Grinev in the form of memoirs, published with the permission of his relatives.

From the very first lines of the novel, we are immersed in the atmosphere of the estate of a provincial nobleman.

Tell us about the life of Petrusha Grinev before serving in the army. What work that we studied earlier do these lines remind us of? What do Fonvizin’s undergrowth and Pushkin’s have in common?

The first chapter of the novel reminds us of the comedy by D.I. Fonvizin "Undergrowth". Petrusha Grinev, just like Mitrofan, is idle, climbs the dovecote, and neglects his studies. His mother spoils him. Just like Mitrofan, Petrusha's teacher is ignorant. Mitrofan's teacher is a former coachman, Petrusha's is a former hairdresser. Both are sixteen years old. But the difference in the depiction of Fonvizin and Pushkin is significant. Fonvizin laughs and mocks Mitrofan, his mother and teachers; his play is a satire. In Pushkin's novel the same thing is described with good humor and gentle irony. In addition, Petrusha and Mitrofan have completely different fathers.

Let us clarify what the literary term “irony” means.

Irony is a negative assessment of an object or phenomenon through its ridicule. The comic effect is achieved by the fact that the true meaning of the statement is disguised: the exact opposite of what is meant is said.

Class assignment. Give examples of ironic images in the first chapter.

This is a description of the “lesson” of Monsieur Beaupré, during which Petrusha was “busy with business” - making a paper kite from a geographical map. “Achievements” in Petrusha’s studies, when by the age of twelve he “learned Russian literacy and could competently talk about the properties of a greyhound dog.” This includes “undoubted success in service” at the inn, expressed in the excessive consumption of punch and playing billiards, etc.

Why, despite such negative phenomena, is Petrusha’s childhood described with such kindness and humor?

Grinev himself describes it many years later, already in old age. It is human nature to remember one’s childhood with warmth. He remembers his childhood not with ridicule, but with a smile.

At what point did Petrusha’s fate change?

From the moment his father decided to send him to military service.

Individual student assignment. Tell about the service of young nobles during the time of Catherine II.

Now is the time to turn to the epigraphs given by Pushkin to the 1st chapter and to the entire novel.

What epigraph is given to chapter 1? How does it relate to the content of the chapter? Why does it end with the words: “Who is his father?”

What do we learn about Grinev’s father from the very first lines of the novel? Who is Minich and what is the significance of the mention of his name in the novel?

Individual student assignment. Prepare a report about Minich.

Burchard Christopher Minich (1683–1767), commander, politician. In 1741 he was exiled by Empress Elizabeth Petrovna to Siberia. Returned from exile by Peter the Third, to whom he remained faithful during the palace coup of 1762, which brought Catherine the Second to the throne.

Thus, Grinev’s father ended up resigning because he did not want to break the oath he had taken. That is why the father reads the Court Calendar with such irritation and excitement, which indicates the awards and ranks of those with whom he once served and who swore allegiance to the new empress. With an epigraph, Pushkin draws our attention to the most important issue raised in the story.

How do you understand the proverb: “Take care of your honor from a young age”? Where in the first chapter is it heard?

CONCLUSION. In the novel “The Captain's Daughter” the main issue will be the question of honor and its preservation.

IV. The concept of “honor” in the story

But how does young Petrusha Grinev understand the word “honor” at first? In order for us to understand this, let’s find out the meaning of this word using the dictionary of S.I. Ozhegov and the dictionary V.I. Dalia.

Individual student assignment

Explanatory dictionary of the Russian language S.I. Ozhegova:

1. Moral qualities of a person and his principles worthy of respect and pride. A matter of honor, a duty of honor.

2. Good untarnished reputation, good name. The honor of the family, the honor of the uniform.

3. Chastity, purity. Maiden's honor.

4. Honor, respect. Give honor.

“Explanatory Dictionary of the Living Great Russian Language” by V.I. Dalia:

1. Internal, moral dignity of a person, valor, honesty, nobility of soul, clear conscience.

2. Conditional, secular, worldly nobility, often false, imaginary.

3. High rank, rank.

4. External proof of difference, a sign of superiority.

5. Showing respect, honor.

In what meaning does Petrusha understand the word “honor” at the beginning of the novel?

In the fourth meaning for Ozhegov and in the second, third, fourth, fifth for Dahl.

What examples from the first chapter can confirm this?

The idea of ​​service as parades, entertainment, and honor. Paying off a debt for losing at billiards. Rough treatment of Savelich, the desire to insist on his own.

CONCLUSION. We see that Petrusha Grinev perceives such a concept as honor superficially; it has not yet been formed in him.

But is it possible already in the first chapter to see signs that this is not the moral basis of his character, that by nature he is a kind and warm-hearted person?

Yes, this is the feeling of guilt experienced by Petrusha after a quarrel with Savelich, an internal awareness of his wrongness. After this, Petrusha finds the strength to ask the servant for forgiveness.

But why is Petrusha so rude and self-willed at the inn, since this has never happened to him before?

He wants to feel like an adult, to break out from under care, to do something of his own free will: “But I wanted to break free and prove that I am no longer a child.”

V. Lesson summary

What is the main moral problem raised by Pushkin in the novel “The Captain's Daughter”? How many voices are there in the story?

VI. Homework

2. Assignment based on options: 1st option - analyze Grinev’s behavior and actions.

2nd option - analyze Shvabrin’s behavior and actions on the following questions:

Relation to the Mironov family;

Behavior during a duel;

Behavior during the capture of the Belogorsk fortress by the Pugachevites;

Attitude towards Masha Mironova;

Behavior with Pugachev.

Individual tasks

1. Talk about Grinev’s life in the Belogorsk fortress and what the fortress itself was like, how the service was held, who was the true owner of the fortress.

2. Compare the episode of giving a hare sheepskin coat and the episode of paying off a debt for a loss. What are the similarities and what are the differences?

Lesson 2. Character development of the main character. Grinev and Shvabrin

Target. Follow further development character of the hero; teaching comparative characteristics of heroes; developing students’ skills in working with options; give an idea of ​​the continuity of Pushkin’s traditions in Russian literature; instilling in schoolchildren such concepts as honor and dignity.

Lesson progress

Everything we have is from Pushkin.
( F.M. Dostoevsky)

I. One of the goals of our lesson will be to trace through the novel how the personality of Pyotr Grinev develops. As our lesson progresses, we will draw up a diagram of the main character’s growth.

During the lesson, the following diagram is drawn in notebooks and on the board:

6) Self-sacrifice for the good name of Masha Mironova.

5) Risks his life to save Masha, does not leave Savelich in trouble.

4) Refusal to swear allegiance to the rebel.

3) A duel for the girl’s honor.

2) Gratitude for salvation.

1) Payment of debt for loss.

Question to repeat. How did Petrusha Grinev appear before us in the first chapter?

Young, inexperienced and naive, he passionately wants to grow up, but to do this he often chooses the wrong ways: playing billiards, drinking, being insolent with Savelich. But at heart he is kind and ashamed of the bad deeds that he commits out of inexperience.

You said that the hero passionately wants to grow up. But what does it mean to “be an adult”? How do you understand this expression?

This means being independent, being able to make serious decisions, being responsible for yourself and others, being able to analyze your actions and give them your assessment.

Does Petrusha have the full set of these qualities?

No. Although he is already able to realize his guilt and admit it, he is not yet able to make independent decisions or resist bad influences. This is confirmed by the incident at the inn.

Let's follow Grinev's further actions. Why does the hero and his companions get caught in a snowstorm?

He frivolously hopes for chance and does not listen to the advice of an experienced person. This again reveals his willfulness, his desire to insist on his own.

How did the travelers manage to get out of the snowstorm? How did he thank his savior?

Individual student assignment. Compare the episode of donating a hare sheepskin coat with the episode from the first chapter, when Grinev paid the debt for losing to Zurin. What are the similarities and differences between these episodes?

The similarity is that in both cases, Grinev repays the debt to another person, demanding what he needs from Savelich. In both cases, Savelich is outraged by the loss, grumbles and objects.

The difference is that in the first case, Petrusha is ashamed of his behavior, he repents and asks for forgiveness. In the second - no, because in the second case he does not throw money away, but thanks for the service rendered. He pays good for good. This time he acts quite consciously, like an honest person.

CONCLUSION. This act of Grinev correlates with the concepts of honor. He honestly thanks for the salvation, and this puts him one step higher compared to his previous act, which gives him the right to ignore Savelich’s objections.

II. Individual task

Tell us about Grinev’s life in the Belogorsk fortress. What is this fortress like, is it what the hero imagined? How was the service in the fortress? Who was really the commander in it? What kind of atmosphere reigned in the family of Captain Mironov?

(Student's answer.)

CONCLUSION. A warm family atmosphere reigns in the Belogorsk fortress, soldiers and commanders treat each other with warmth, there is no officialdom. The whole fortress is like a big family. Peter fell in love with these people, not wanting anything else for himself. Pushkin writes with warmth and tenderness about the relationships of these people, and here one of the ideas dearest to Pushkin is carried out - the thought of family. Now pay attention to the epigraph to our lesson. Why did Dostoevsky say that? Because Pushkin’s work contains traditions that will subsequently be developed in Russian literature of the 19th century. In particular, family thought will become one of the main thoughts in the work of L.N. Tolstoy.

III.- Which of the inhabitants of the fortress stands out from the general circle? How?

Alexey Ivanovich Shvabrin. He is the only one of the inhabitants of the fortress who speaks French, his conversation is witty and entertaining. He was educated, served in St. Petersburg in the guard, and was transferred to the Belogorsk fortress for a duel.

Why did Shvabrin, whom Grinev liked at first, gradually begin to dislike him?

He speaks poorly about the family of Captain Mironov, slanderes Ivan Ignatich, and puts Masha in a bad light. All these people became dear to Grinev, and he was unpleasant to hear bad things about them.

Working with options

How do Grinev and Shvabrin relate to each other in the character system?

They are opposed.

Now we will compile a comparative table of the actions of Grinev and Shvabrin and see how the actions of one and the other relate to the concepts of honor.

Comparative characteristics of Grinev and Shvabrin

General. Both nobles, officers, serve in the Belogorsk fortress, are in love with Masha Mironova.

Miscellaneous

What conclusion can we draw about the concepts of honor in one and the other?

Grinev’s concept of honor is developing. In all his actions he acts honestly and openly. Gradually, he ascends to the highest manifestation of honor - self-sacrifice in the name of another person. Shvabrin has no concept of honor at all. This hero, on the contrary, morally sinks lower and lower.

IV. Lesson summary

So, we see that Grinev’s character is given in development. And again we turn to the epigraph of the lesson: “Everything we have is from Pushkin.” The tradition of depicting a hero in development received a powerful continuation in Russian literature. Heroes of L.N. Tolstoy, whom we will soon meet, are depicted by the writer as always looking for their way, restless. These are the ones who have become readers’ favorite heroes. And on the contrary, wanting to show the baseness of someone’s soul, Tolstoy emphasized the immobility and lack of spiritual development of the hero. In this we see a continuation of Pushkin’s traditions.

V. Homework

Answer the questions:

1) Why is the novel named after the heroine?

2) Why did Catherine the Second pardon Grinev?

Options assignment

1st option. To trace how the feeling of love between Masha and Grinev developed.

2nd option. Tell about what happened to Masha after Pugachev captured the Belogorsk fortress.

Individual tasks

1) Prepare an expressive reading based on the roles of the dialogue between Masha and Grinev from the chapter “Love”.

2) Prepare an expressive memorization of A.S.’s poem. Pushkin “I loved you...”

Lesson 3. The theme of love in the novel by A.S. Pushkin "The Captain's Daughter"

Target. Analyze the image of Masha Mironova, understand why the novel is named after her; develop skills in selective work with text; develop expressive reading skills by heart and by role; education of the concepts of modesty, honor, chastity and sublime love.

Lesson progress

A novel about a miracle performed by love.
( T. Alpatova)

I. Opening remarks teachers

The theme of love is one of the favorite themes of Pushkin’s work. This feeling has always been sacred for the poet. It has always been associated with such concepts as purity, nobility, holiness. Pushkin himself was in love more than once, and this feeling always brought light and inspiration into his life. Even unrequited love was full of charm and light sadness for the poet. The state of falling in love was natural for Pushkin. This is precisely expressed in the lines:

And the heart burns again and loves because
That it cannot help but love.

A whole gallery of beautiful images has been created in Pushkin’s work. female images: these are both the recipients of his love lyrics and the heroines of his works - Tatyana Larina, Donna Anna, Masha Troekurova, Liza Muromskaya, Zemfira, etc. This gallery ends with Masha Mironova. It so happened that this is the last female image in Pushkin’s work.

II. How does Masha appear before us in the chapter “Fortress”? Find a description of her appearance.

Modest, shy, fearful, timid, not distinguished by a striking, beautiful appearance. Vasilisa Egorovna even calls her a coward. In addition, it is said that Masha is homeless.

It must be said that all of Pushkin’s favorite heroines were not distinguished by their bright appearance. Their beauty lies elsewhere.

Work of the 1st option. Does Petrusha Grinev immediately develop a feeling of love for Masha? Follow through the novel how this feeling arises and develops.

At first, Peter was prejudiced towards Masha, influenced by Shvabrin’s negative review. But during the conversation at the table, he felt sorry for Masha, since her mother spoke very unceremoniously about her. Then Petrusha, having gotten to know the girl better, discovered that she was “prudent and sensitive.” But this is not love yet, although Grinev is already unpleasant to listen to Shvabrin’s caustic remarks about Masha. The poem written was hardly dedicated to Masha. If this were so, it is unlikely that Peter would have shown it to Shvabrin. But he brings it to trial, expecting praise. Masha's name in the poems was most likely accidental. But Shvabrin’s dirty hints infuriated Grinev. He stood up for the girl’s honor, as the duty of a nobleman, a knight told him to do so. Shvabrin, trying to turn Grinev away from Masha, achieves the exact opposite - Petrusha looked at Masha in a new way. A conversation with Masha and her admission that Shvabrin was wooing her, but she refused, completed the matter - Peter fell in love. When Masha was caring for the wounded Grinev, he decided to marry her.

From the very first lines, Masha appeared before us timid and shy, but does this mean that she is spineless?

No. The refusal to Shvabrin testifies to his strong character and persistent principles. She does not want to marry an unloved person, even at the risk of remaining an old maid for life.

Yes, you need to understand this: imagine a girl living in a remote village where no one comes. The girl also has no dowry. An officer like Shvabrin, according to the ideas of that time, was her only chance to arrange her fate. But she rejects him because she doesn't love him. This speaks not only of strong character, but also of courage, because in the 18th century a woman had only one purpose: to get married and take care of her husband, children, and run the household. There were no other fields.

What moment in the development of the love relationship between Masha and Peter can be considered the culminating moment?

Explanation after receiving a letter from Grinev’s father, in which he forbids his son to marry.

(Students prepared in advance read by role the dialogue between Masha and Grinev in the chapter “Love”. You can dramatize this episode.)

Why do you think Masha, honoring this letter, refuses to marry her beloved? Who is she caring about at this moment?

(Students' answers.)

Pushkin has a wonderful poem written back in 1829. Listen to it and tell me, does it echo this scene from the novel?

(The student reads Pushkin’s poem “I loved you...” by heart.)

What lines of dialogue are consistent with the poem?

This is what is called chastity.

Chastity - 1) Same as chastity.

2) Strict morality, purity. (Explanatory dictionary of the Russian language by S.I. Ozhegov)

Is this concept included in the scope of the concept of “honor”?

Yes, in the dictionary of S.I. Ozhegova “honor” in the third meaning means “chastity”.

This means that Masha Mironova sacredly preserves her honor and is ready to give up personal happiness for the sake of preserving her honor. And we are talking not only about girlish honor, but also about human honor.

Individual task. Tell us about Masha’s misadventures after the Pugachevites captured the Belogorsk fortress.

What character qualities did Masha show at this time?

III. Why is the novel called not “Grinev” - after the name of the main character, not “Pugachev” - after the leader of the popular uprising, but after Masha - “The Captain’s Daughter”?

Apparently because it is the main character who becomes the center of the lyrical plot of the novel. Despite her modesty and inconspicuousness, she becomes the object of love and adoration of everyone who meets her. Because of Masha, Grinev and Shvabrin fight a duel. Because of her, Grinev goes to Pugachev’s headquarters to face certain death, because of Masha, Pugachev shows royal mercy. It is Masha who will later rescue Grinev from prison.

Pay attention to the epigraph to our lesson. Creativity researcher A.S. Pushkin T. Alpatova writes that this is “a novel about a miracle performed by love.” Indeed, isn’t it a miracle that Grinev, having been in the very “lion’s den,” comes out safe and sound with his bride? And isn’t it a miracle that Masha seeks the forgiveness of her fiancé from the Empress herself?

Let's turn to final scene novel. What does Masha ask the Empress?

“Mercy, not justice.”

Why “mercy” and not “justice”?

Because from the point of view of the law, Grinev was guilty: he collaborated with the rebel, and in a strange way was spared and released. Moreover, Grinev did not name the real reasons for his actions in order to preserve the good name of Masha Mironova. Therefore, Grinev was convicted quite fairly, and it is the mercy of the empress that can save him.

Why does Catherine the Second, when pardoning her, pronounce the phrase: “I am indebted to the daughter of Captain Mironov”? In what debt?

Captain Mironov did not change his oath to the Empress. Because of this, Masha was left an orphan, and the empress pays off this debt by not leaving Masha without protection. Pugachev once told Grinev: “Debt is worth paying.” Catherine II follows the same.

IV. Lesson summary

Professor T. Alpatova writes that “The Captain's Daughter” is “the first Russian realistic novel about what could not have happened, and simply could not have happened. A novel about a miracle performed by love.” Yes, all of this in reality most likely could not have happened. But Pushkin’s humanistic thought forces the rulers of the world to condescend to the troubles of little people and, bowing before the power of love, do good.

In the following lessons on studying the novel, students will explore the image of Emelyan Pugachev as portrayed by A.S. Pushkin.