Mikhail Bulgakov (1891 – 1940) was a prominent Russian author and playwright, renowned for his satirical approach to showcasing the controversial aspects of the Soviet regime. He was born in Kiev, Ukraine, which was part of the Russian Empire at the time. He initially studied medicine at Kiev University and worked as a doctor. His experience in practicing medicine, particularly his role as a field physician during World War I, significantly influenced his writing. He later exchanged his medical practice for a writing career, opting to pursue his passion for literature. Bulgakov began his literary career around 1919, when he started composing short stories for local newspapers. Soon, he relocated to Moscow, where he wrote for the magazine Gudok and worked in the Art Theatre of Moscow. His first significant success came from the novel "The White Guard", which received national acclaim and was adapted into a successful play "The Days of the Turbins". However, the Soviet government deemed his writing controversial due to its satirical approach towards communism. Several of Bulgakov's works were censored, including his most famous novel, "The Master and Margarita", which was published posthumously in 1966-67. This novel, combining elements of fantasy, satire, and romance, centers around a visit by the devil to the fervently atheistic Soviet Union. The novel is considered one of the masterpieces of the 20th century. Despite the stringent censorship during his lifetime, Bulgakov's works have since been honored for their searing criticism of totalitarian society, as well as their exploration of universal human themes.
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