Fathers and Sons by Ivan Turgenev (Penguin Classics)

Description

“Fathers and Sons” is a novel by Russian author Ivan Turgenev, first published in 1862. Set in mid-19th-century Russia, the story revolves around the generational conflict between the older generation of traditional Russian aristocrats (the “fathers”) and the younger generation of nihilistic intellectuals (the “sons”). The novel follows the character of Arkady Nikolayevich Kirsanov, a young man who returns home from university with his friend, Evgeny Vasilich Bazarov, a staunch nihilist. Their arrival disrupts the tranquil life of Arkady’s family estate, leading to tensions and clashes between the old and new ideologies.

Turgenev explores themes such as the clash of generations, the changing social and political landscape of Russia, and the struggle between tradition and modernity. Through vivid characterizations and insightful social commentary, “Fathers and Sons” offers a nuanced portrayal of Russian society during a period of significant transformation.