An Incident by Vsevolod Garshin
The story revolves around a young officer who witnesses the execution of a group of peasants by his comrades during a civil war. The incident leaves him shaken and questioning the morality of the actions he has been a part of. As the officer reflects on what he has seen, he begins to realize that the violence and bloodshed are not just random acts, but rather a symptom of a larger societal problem. He starts to see the world in a different light, and his own role within it becomes increasingly ambiguous. The story explores themes of morality, guilt, and the psychological effects of trauma on individuals who have witnessed or participated in violent events.
By Vsevolod Garshin · First published 1881 · Genre: Psychological Fiction, Literary Fiction, Tragedy · 4 chapters · 7,702 words
First lines
How it has come about that I, who for almost two years have never thought seriously about anything, have suddenly commenced to reflect -- I cannot understand. It cannot be that man who has set me thinking, because I so often meet with men of his type that I am accustomed to their sermonizing.
What this Textopian page supports
An Incident is listed on Textopian as a novella by Vsevolod Garshin, dated 1881 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Novella
- Author: Vsevolod Garshin
- Date: 1881 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Psychological Fiction, Literary Fiction, Tragedy, Social Commentary, Existentialism
- Length: 7,702 words
- Structure: 4 chapters, 145 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for An Incident by Vsevolod Garshin
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering An Incident?
- How does this novella by Vsevolod Garshin fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Psychological Fiction first become important in the reading?
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Genres
- Psychological Fiction — The narrative delves deeply into the protagonist's internal struggles, exploring themes of despair, identity, and the human psyche.
- Literary Fiction — The work emphasizes character development and thematic depth, focusing on the complexities of human emotions and societal issues.
- Tragedy — The story portrays a tragic descent into despair and hopelessness, highlighting the protagonist's struggles and ultimate fate.
- Social Commentary — The text critiques societal norms and the treatment of marginalized individuals, reflecting on class and morality.
Tags
Psychological Fiction · Russian Literature · Short Story · Philosophical Themes · Existentialism · Mental Illness · Isolation · Loneliness · Despair · Futility · War Trauma · Soldier's Life