Boris Godunov and Other Dramatic Works: A Journey into the Heart of Russian History

In the annals of Russian literature, the name Boris Godunov stands as a towering figure. This captivating play by Alexander Pushkin delves into the complexities of power, ambition, and the human condition during a pivotal period in Russian history.

Boris Godunov and Other Dramatic Works (Oxford World's Classics)

by Alexander Pushkin

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2677 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	248 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Paperback	:	304 pages
Item Weight	:	1 pounds
Dimensions	:	5.3 x 1 x 8.3 inches

FREE

Published in 1831, "Boris Godunov" is not only a literary masterpiece but also an invaluable historical document that sheds light on the turbulent events of the Time of Troubles. Through its vivid characters, gripping plot, and evocative language, Pushkin offers a profound exploration of the themes that have shaped Russia's destiny.

A Historical Panorama

The play transports us to the late 16th century, a time of political instability and social upheaval. The reign of the weak and sickly Tsar Feodor Ivanovich has thrown the country into chaos, creating a vacuum of power that ambitious nobles seek to fill.

Enter Boris Godunov, a shrewd and ambitious boyar who manipulates his way to the throne. Driven by a lust for power and a deep-seated guilt, Godunov's reign is marked by both brilliance and brutality.

Pushkin's play captures the intricacies of this tumultuous period, providing a panoramic view of Russian society. Through its diverse cast of characters, we encounter princes and peasants, soldiers and monks, each with their own motivations and desires.

Boris Godunov: A Complex Character

At the heart of the play lies the enigmatic figure of Boris Godunov. A man of great ambition and cunning, Godunov is driven by a complex mixture of motives.

He is both a brilliant ruler who brings stability and prosperity to Russia and a ruthless tyrant who eliminates his rivals and suppresses dissent. Haunted by the murder of the young Tsarevich Dmitry, Godunov's guilt and paranoia gradually consume him, leading to his tragic downfall.

Themes and Symbolism

Throughout the play, Pushkin explores a profound range of themes, including the perils of power, the nature of guilt, and the cyclical nature of history.

Godunov's insatiable ambition mirrors the dangers of unchecked power, while his torment and hallucinations represent the corrosive effects of guilt. The play's haunting imagery and symbolism further deepen these themes, creating a sense of foreboding and inevitability.

Beyond Boris Godunov

"Boris Godunov" is not the only dramatic work by Pushkin included in this Oxford World Classics edition. Also featured are:

• The Stone Guest: A captivating tale of love, betrayal, and the supernatural, based on the legend of Don Juan.
• Mozart and Salieri: A psychological drama that delves into the rivalry between two musical geniuses and the destructive power of envy.
• The Covetous Knight: A gripping exploration of greed and the corrosive effects of wealth on the human soul.
• The Feast During the Plague: A dark and atmospheric work that examines the themes of death, isolation, and the search for meaning in a time of crisis.

Each of these plays showcases Pushkin's mastery of language, his penetrating insights into human nature, and his ability to evoke both the grandeur and the tragedy of Russian history.

Boris Godunov and Other Dramatic Works is a towering achievement in Russian literature that continues to captivate readers and audiences alike. Pushkin's timeless masterpiece offers a profound exploration of power, guilt, and the human condition, while also providing a vivid and gripping portrait of a pivotal period in Russian history.

Whether you are a student of literature, a history buff, or simply a lover of great storytelling, this exceptional edition is a must-have for your library.

Boris Godunov and Other Dramatic Works (Oxford World's Classics)

by Alexander Pushkin

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2677 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	248 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Paperback	:	304 pages
Item Weight	:	1 pounds
Dimensions	:	5.3 x 1 x 8.3 inches

FREE