Doctor Zhivago by Boris Pasternak

Description

“Doctor Zhivago” is a novel written by Russian author Boris Pasternak. The novel was completed in 1956 but was not published in the Soviet Union due to its controversial themes and perspectives on the Russian Revolution. It was first published in Italy in 1957 and later went on to win the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1958.

The story is set against the backdrop of the Russian Revolution and its aftermath, covering the years before, during, and after World War I. The central character, Yuri Zhivago, is a physician and poet whose life is deeply affected by the historical events and societal changes of the time. The novel explores themes of love, politics, war, and the impact of ideology on individuals and society.

The narrative unfolds through the eyes of various characters, offering a multifaceted view of the tumultuous period in Russian history. “Doctor Zhivago” is known for its poetic prose, intricate characterizations, and its portrayal of the human experience amidst political and social upheaval.

The novel was adapted into a highly successful film directed by David Lean in 1965, starring Omar Sharif as Yuri Zhivago and Julie Christie as Lara Antipova. While the film is widely acclaimed, the novel itself is regarded as a masterpiece of 20th-century literature, capturing the complexities and emotions of its characters in the face of historical and personal challenges.