Fathers and Sons

With an introduction by Lionel Kelly from the University of Reading, "Fathers and Sons" is regarded as one of the most exceptional Russian novels of the nineteenth century and is celebrated as Turgenev’s masterpiece. This political novel unfolds within a familial setting, depicting the universal theme of generational conflict between fathers and their sons. Taking place in 1859, during a pivotal time when Russia's autocratic regime was tentatively progressing towards social and political changes, the novel delves into the tension between the older generation of liberal-minded reformers and their sons, who possess revolutionary ideas that threaten societal stability. Central to the plot is Evgeny Bazarov, a defiant opponent of conventional social norms, who proudly identifies as a nihilist and advocates for the dismantling of state institutions. As the story progresses, Bazarov's political pursuits entangle with his personal and emotional life, leading to a tragic downfall. Upon its 1862 release, the novel sparked intense controversy, ultimately resulting in Turgenev's departure from Russia just a year later.