Why We (Still) Need Russian Literature: Tolstoy, Dostoevsky, Chekhov and Others

Russian literature offers intellectual provocation, aesthetic pleasure, emotional resonance, and personal solace, and Why We (Still) Need Russian Literature helps readers connect with these experiences. It identifies what readers seek and find in Russian books, such as aesthetically pleasing descriptions and apt psychological renderings, and aims to enhance the gratification of reading. It is informed by a deep cultural understanding of Russia and Russians and reveals this through engaging literary meditations that connect Russian literature to the human condition.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 136 pages
Publication date: 08 February 2024
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

For nearly two centuries, readers from all corners of the globe have sought solace, intellectual provocation, aesthetic pleasure, and emotional resonance in the vast canon of Russian literature. From the timeless themes of love and death to the complexities of war and peace, and even the darker aspects of crime and punishment, Russian writing has offered a rich tapestry of experiences that resonate with readers worldwide.

In Why We (Still) Need Russian Literature, Angela Brintlinger delves into the profound influence of these iconic authors on readers' lives. With a lively and accessible style, she guides readers through the familiar names of Pushkin, Tolstoy, Dostoevsky, and Chekhov, connecting them with the rich tapestry of experiences that these authors have woven. Through insightful analyses of thought-provoking texts, Brintlinger aims to enhance the pleasure of reading and encourage readers to revisit these timeless works.

By identifying what readers seek and find in Russian books—from the aesthetically pleasing descriptions to the apt psychological renderings—Brintlinger seeks to deepen their appreciation of literature. She offers a cultural understanding of Russia and Russians, drawing on her experiences as a scholar, teacher, and avid reader of Russian literature. Through engaging literary meditations, she connects Russian literature to the losses, ironies, and ambiguities that define the human condition, offering readers a profound insight into the human experience.

Brintlinger also explores the imagined readers of these authors, arguing that it is these diverse and global readers who ultimately determine the worth of literary works. She provides an appendix with additional names and titles, familiar and perhaps utterly new, books that showcase the ways in which Russian literature remains vital and relevant in the modern world.

In conclusion, Why We (Still) Need Russian Literature is a captivating exploration of the enduring power of Russian literature. By delving into the themes, characters, and cultural significance of these iconic authors, Brintlinger offers readers a deeper understanding and appreciation of the literary world. Whether you are a seasoned reader or a newcomer to Russian literature, this book will inspire you to embark on a journey of discovery and enlightenment.

Weight: 159g
Dimension: 198 x 129 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350242142