Doctor Zhivago by Boris Pasternak (Vintage 1974 Edition)

“Doctor Zhivago” is not actually written by Boris Pasternak, but rather it is a novel written by Boris Pasternak. It was first published in Italy in 1957, and it is one of the most famous and acclaimed works of Russian literature.

The novel is set in Russia during the tumultuous times of the early 20th century, spanning the period before, during, and after the Russian Revolution and the Russian Civil War. The story revolves around the life of Yuri Zhivago, a physician and poet, and his experiences amidst the backdrop of the historical events and social upheavals that shape the fate of the Russian people.

The novel is known for its lyrical prose, complex characters, and its exploration of themes such as love, art, politics, and the human spirit amidst chaos and tragedy. The main character, Yuri Zhivago, is torn between two women, Lara and Tonya, as he grapples with his personal and artistic convictions in a time of great upheaval.

When “Doctor Zhivago” was first published, it was initially banned in the Soviet Union due to its critical portrayal of the Russian Revolution and the Soviet regime. However, the novel gained international recognition and won Boris Pasternak the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1958, though he was forced to decline the award under pressure from the Soviet authorities.

Despite the controversy surrounding its publication, “Doctor Zhivago” has remained a beloved and influential work of literature, and it has been adapted into various films and other media over the years.