The story revolves around a young man who murders an old woman and then flees to the countryside. He becomes embroiled in a complex web of relationships with various characters, including a peasant girl and a wealthy landowner's daughter. As he navigates these relationships, the protagonist grapples with his own guilt and sense of morality. The novel explores themes of class struggle, social inequality, and the human condition. The narrative is characterized by its vivid descriptions of rural life and the harsh realities faced by the working class. Through the protagonist's experiences, the author critiques the societal norms and values that contribute to crime and violence. Ultimately, the story builds towards a tragic conclusion, as the protagonist's actions catch up with him and he must face the consequences of his crimes.
By Aleksandr Kuprin · First published 1907 · Genre: Psychological Fiction, Literary Fiction, Tragedy