Eugene Onegin

Pushkin, Alexander (1799–1837), translated by Kline, A. S. (contact-email)

Eugene Onegin is the renowned Russian verse novel penned by Alexander Pushkin (1799–1837). Serialized from 1825 to 1832, with its definitive edition emerging in 1837, it is a seminal work of Russian literature. The narrative, spanning 389 stanzas of iambic tetrameter, adopts a unique rhyme scheme intertwining feminine and masculine rhymes. The narrative follows the eponymous character, Onegin, a disillusioned aristocrat who initially coldly rejects the love of the earnest Tatyana, prior to remorsefully pursuing her in later life. The story, though straightforward, unfolds with a complex portrayal of characters, driven by the narrative’s rhythmic elegance. Pushkin’s work is notable for its exploration of themes such as the clash between emerging Romantic ideals and established social conventions. The novel’s influence extends beyond literature into subsequent adaptations for opera and ballet.

Author Details

Alexander Sergeyevich Pushkin, born on 6 June 1799 in Moscow, is often hailed as the greatest Russian poet and the founder of modern Russian literature.

Born into the Russian nobility, Pushkin's father was of the old aristocracy, while his mother Nadezhda Ossipovna Gannibal, was descended from Abram Petrovich Gannibal - an African nobleman raised in the imperial Russian household.

Pushkin's literary talent emerged early. He published his first poem at 15 and had already gained recognition by the time he graduated from the Tsarskoye Selo Lyceum. Upon graduation from the Lycée, Pushkin recited his controversial poem "Ode to Liberty", one of several that led to his exile by Emperor Alexander I - primarily in the south of Russia and later at his family estate, Mikhailovskoye. Pushkin wrote his play, “Boris Godunov” while under strict surveillance by the emperor's political police and unable to publish. His novel in verse, “Eugene Onegin”, was serialized between 1825 and 1832.

Pushkin's literary prowess continued to flourish with works such as "Ruslan and Ludmila." Despite government restrictions, his efforts continued to gain influence. He was eventually allowed to return from exile and took up a position in the National Archives under Emperor Nicholas I.

Pushkin's personal life was tumultuous. He married Natalia Goncharova and became involved in court society. However, his jealousy led to a fatal duel with Georges-Charles de Heeckeren d'Anthès, his wife's alleged lover (and her sister’s husband), in 1837, his death at the age of 37 a significant loss to Russian literature and wider European culture.

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Kline, A. S.

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