The Little Demon by Fyodor Sologub

Name: The Little Demon
Author: Fyodor Sologub

"The Little Demon" by Fyodor Sologub follows Ardalyon Peredonov, a schoolmaster in a seemingly idyllic town, as he navigates his relationships and ambitions. The story begins after a church service, where Peredonov discusses a potential marriage to his cousin Varvara, spurred by a promise from Princess Volchanskaya for a job if they wed. His friends mock him, questioning the wisdom of marrying Varvara, leading Peredonov to contemplate other options, including the sisters of his friend Routilov. As the narrative unfolds, Peredonov's interactions reveal his insecurities, ambitions, and the superficiality of his social circle. He is drawn into a web of manipulation and deceit, particularly by the alluring Natalya Vershina, who seems to have her own designs on him. The story explores themes of desire, ambition, and the grotesque nature of human relationships, ultimately painting a portrait of a man caught between societal expectations and his own dark impulses. Peredonov's internal struggles and the absurdity of his situation culminate in a critique of the moral decay surrounding him.

By Fyodor Sologub · First published 1907 · Genre: Psychological Fiction, Symbolism, Gothic Fiction · 32 chapters · 119,703 words

First lines

After Mass the members of the congregation scattered to their homes. A few stopped to talk under the old maples and lindens near the white stone walls, within the enclosure. All were in holiday dress and looked at one another cheerily. It appeared as if the inhabitants of this town lived peacefully and amicably -- even happily. But it was only in appearance.

Peredonov, a schoolmaster in the gymnasia, stood among his friends, and as he looked at them gravely out of his small, stealthy eyes, across the golden rims of his spectacles, he remarked:

What this Textopian page supports

The Little Demon is listed on Textopian as a novel by Fyodor Sologub, dated 1907 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Novel
Author: Fyodor Sologub
Date: 1907 CE
Language: English
Genres: Psychological Fiction, Symbolism, Gothic Fiction, Literary Fiction, Fantasy
Length: 119,703 words
Structure: 32 chapters, 3,545 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

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Work identity for The Little Demon by Fyodor Sologub
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Discussion starters

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Similar titles

Genres

Psychological Fiction — The novel explores the inner workings of the mind, delving into themes of madness and existential dread.
Symbolism — The narrative is rich in symbolic elements that reflect deeper philosophical and psychological themes.
Gothic Fiction — The book contains dark, eerie elements and explores themes of the supernatural and the grotesque.
Literary Fiction — The writing style is complex and focuses on character development and thematic depth.