Lazarus by Leonid Andreyev (1909)
The story revolves around a young man who returns to his hometown after being away for many years. He is met with indifference and hostility by the people he once knew. The protagonist's attempts to reconnect with them are rebuffed, leading him to feel isolated and disconnected from society. As the narrative progresses, it becomes clear that the protagonist's return has triggered a series of events that expose the darker aspects of human nature. The townspeople's behavior is revealed to be driven by petty squabbles, jealousy, and a general lack of empathy. The story explores themes of alienation, disillusionment, and the search for meaning in a seemingly meaningless world. Through the protagonist's experiences, the narrative highlights the difficulties of reconnecting with one's past and finding a sense of belonging in a society that is often hostile or indifferent to individual needs and desires. Ultimately, the story suggests that true connection and understanding can only be achieved through genuine human relationships, which are often difficult to establish in a world where people are more focused on their own interests than on forming meaningful bonds with others.
By Leonid Andreyev · First published 1909 · Genre: Philosophical Fiction, Gothic Fiction, Symbolism · 6 chapters · 8,749 words
First lines
When Lazarus emerged from the grave wherein for the space of three days and three nights he had dwelt under the mysterious dominion of death, and returned living to his abode, the ominous peculiarities which later made his very name a thing of dread remained for a long time unnoticed.
What this Textopian page supports
Lazarus is listed on Textopian as a novella by Leonid Andreyev, dated 1909 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Novella
- Author: Leonid Andreyev
- Date: 1909 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Philosophical Fiction, Gothic Fiction, Symbolism, Religious Allegory, Tragedy
- Length: 8,749 words
- Structure: 6 chapters, 138 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Lazarus by Leonid Andreyev
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Lazarus?
- How does this novella by Leonid Andreyev fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Philosophical Fiction first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- The Wall by Leonid Andreyev
- A Present by Leonid Andreyev
- Snapper by Leonid Andreyev
- The Giant by Leonid Andreyev
- The Dark by Leonid Andreyev
- Silence by Leonid Andreyev
Genres
- Philosophical Fiction — The narrative explores profound themes of life, death, and the human condition, prompting deep reflection on existence.
- Gothic Fiction — The story contains elements of horror and the macabre, particularly in its depiction of death and the transformation of Lazarus.
- Symbolism — The characters and events symbolize broader existential themes, particularly the struggle between life and the void.
- Religious Allegory — The narrative draws on biblical themes and figures, particularly the resurrection and its implications.
Tags
Philosophical Fiction · Psychological Drama · Existentialism · Absurdism · Russian Literature · 20th Century Literature · Short Story Collection · Literary Classic · Symbolic Fiction · Moral Ambiguity · Social Commentary · Human Condition