Asbein by Ossip Schubin (1910)
The narrative follows the lives of two central characters, a young Russian princess and a violin virtuoso, as they navigate the complexities of love, ambition, and societal expectations in 19th-century Europe. The story begins with a chance encounter in Rome, where the princess, Natalie, pursues Boris Lensky, a celebrated musician, leading to a budding relationship marked by both passion and tension. As their romance develops, Lensky grapples with his artistic identity and the pressures of fame, while Natalie struggles with her role as a woman of high society. Their relationship is tested by Lensky's insecurities about his humble origins and the societal disdain for their union, which is viewed as a mesalliance. Despite their deep affection, Lensky's artistic ambitions and the allure of the music world create a rift between them. The couple marries, and while they initially experience happiness, the strains of Lensky's career and the expectations of society begin to take a toll. Natalie's attempts to adapt to her new life and support her husband are met with challenges, including the loss of their child, which deepens the emotional divide between them. Lensky's increasing discontent with his artistic circle and the superficiality of high society further alienates him from Natalie. As Lensky embarks on a concert tour in America, he becomes entangled in the seductive world of fame, leading to a crisis in their marriage. Natalie's jealousy and feelings of inadequacy surface, exacerbated by Lensky's neglect and the influence of other women in his life. The couple's love is tested as they confront their individual desires and the realities of their relationship. Ultimately, the story explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the struggle for personal fulfillment against the backdrop of societal expectations. The characters' journeys reflect the complexities of human emotion and the often-painful choices that define their lives. The narrative culminates in a poignant examination of the cost of ambition and the enduring power of love, even in the face of adversity.
By Ossip Schubin · First published 1910 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Psychological Fiction, Philosophical Fiction · 4 chapters · 65,572 words
First lines
"But -- do you really not recognize me? " With these words, and with friendly, outstretched hands, a young lady hastened toward a man who, with gloomily contracted brow, wrapped in thought, went on his way without noticing either her or his surroundings. He was foolish, for his surroundings were picturesque -- Rome, near the Fontana di Trevi, on a bright March afternoon. And the young lady -- she was charming.
Although she had called to him in French, something about her -- one could scarcely have told what -- betrayed the Russian; everything, the pampered woman from the highest circles of society.
What this Textopian page supports
Asbein is listed on Textopian as a novel by Ossip Schubin, dated 1910 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Novel
- Author: Ossip Schubin
- Date: 1910 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Literary Fiction, Psychological Fiction, Philosophical Fiction, Drama, Historical Fiction
- Length: 65,572 words
- Structure: 4 chapters, 1,138 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Asbein by Ossip Schubin
- 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 Asbein?
- How does this novel by Ossip Schubin fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Literary Fiction first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- The Romance Of The Canoness by Paul Heyse
- The Collection Of Antiquities by Honore De Balzac
- Kholstomir The History Of A Horse by Leo Tolstoy
- Boris Lensky by Ossip Schubin
- The Young Tsar by Leo Tolstoy
- A Goodly Life by Ivan Bunin
Genres
- Literary Fiction — The book explores complex themes and character development, typical of literary fiction.
- Psychological Fiction — The narrative delves into the inner workings of the characters' minds, focusing on their thoughts and emotions.
- Philosophical Fiction — The themes often engage with existential questions and philosophical inquiries.
- Drama — The plot likely involves intense emotional conflicts and character interactions typical of dramatic literature.
Tags
Russian Literature · 19th Century Novel · Coming of Age Story · Social Commentary · Family Drama · Psychological Insight · Morality Tale · Satire · Critique of Society · Autobiographical Elements · Historical Fiction · Cultural Commentary
Contents
- BOOK I
- BOOK II
- BOOK III
- BOOK IV