The Themes of A Hero of Our Time Essays - Literature,

The Themes of A Hero of Our Time A Hero of Our Time offers its reader an interesting reading experience over the course of the book. Unlike most books, it does not lead the reader through its story (or in this case, stories) chronologically. One can see that Lermontov wrote it this way on purpose, for the reason of giving the reader a chance to better understand what he is trying to convey. Lermontov has placed three main themes in his book: the comprehensiveness of Russian literature, isolation, and appearance. The comprehensiveness of Russian literature is no doubt a deep subject to dive into. Russian literature contains some of the richest and most profound lyrics the world has seen. One reason for this is that such literature is connected to composition and prose from other nations. In order for readers to fully appreciate this novel, Lermontov made it so that his readers must be not only appreciative but more than aware of literature from various nations by enclosing occasional foreign innuendo . He includ es French quotes throughout the novel without translating them into Russian. Logic may have it that the constant references to other nations, cultures , and societies could be Lermontov's affirmation of the versatility of Russians. An example of this versatility put into action in the book is made manifest via Pechorin . Pechorin presents this concept by how h e refuses to allow himself to be tied down to any place or person throughout th e text. Isolation seems to often be portrayed as a sad characteristic in literature. Pechorin relates to isolation, for he views life not as a struggle for relation , but as a struggle for power over others. This aimlessly driven focus on power is what encourages Pechorin's isolation from society. His constant traveling physically isolates him from those around him, and his attitude on life gives the result of his emotional isolation as well. Pechorin's belief that relationships are based on power also creates an enduring tie with society, because it implies that in order for him to feel satisfied, he must manipulate influence over society. Without inferiors in his presence , Pechorin will never find satisfaction. His hatred of others, yet dependence upon them makes his life an ambiguity , and creates a miserable cycle. Appearance is simultaneously a "shallow" and deep subject. Lermontov makes appearance very relatable. Those in the novel who are physically attractive, such as the beautiful young girl in "Taman" who attempts to drown and kill Pechorin , seem to possess no human soul. This implies that a person's exterior is a false front that hides emptiness or ugly intentions. A person's true essence can be embraced from the observation of their true personable qualities because that is where the real meaning lies. A Hero of Our Time contains life lessons and principles to be aware of. Lermontov has written the novel not only to offer the reader an interesting, above-average reading experience over the course of the book, but also to express his feelings through the three main themes: the comprehensiveness of Russian literature, isolation, and appearance.