Taras Bulba and Other Tales
"Taras Bulba" by Nikolai V. Gogol, in a 1930 Everyman's Library hardback edition, is a historical novella that vividly portrays the lives and conflicts of 17th-century Ukrainian Cossacks.
Historical Epic:
The novella is set in the 17th century and depicts the Cossacks, a fierce and independent people living on the Ukrainian steppes. It captures the turbulent period of conflict between the Cossacks, the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, and the Ottoman Empire.
Taras Bulba's Character:
Taras Bulba is a powerful and uncompromising Cossack leader, embodying the traditional Cossack values of strength, loyalty, and martial prowess. He is a complex character, driven by a fierce sense of honor and a deep love for his homeland.
Family and Conflict:
The story centers on Taras Bulba and his two sons, Andrei and Ostap, who join him in a Cossack campaign against the Poles. The novella explores the themes of family loyalty, betrayal, and the clash between personal desires and national duty.
War and Violence:
Gogol vividly portrays the brutality and violence of warfare in the 17th century. The novella depicts the Cossacks' fierce fighting spirit and their willingness to sacrifice everything for their cause.
National Identity:
"Taras Bulba" is often interpreted as an exploration of Ukrainian national identity and the Cossacks' struggle for independence. It reflects Gogol's own complex relationship with his Ukrainian heritage and his Russian identity.
Everyman's Library Edition:
The 1930 Everyman's Library hardback edition indicates that the novella was considered a classic of world literature. Everyman's Library editions are known for their accessibility and high-quality presentation, making classic works available to a wider audience.
Gogol's Style:
Gogol's writing is characterized by its vivid imagery, dramatic storytelling, and rich language. He creates a powerful and memorable portrait of the Cossack world.
In essence, "Taras Bulba" is a powerful and dramatic novella that captures the spirit of the Cossacks and their struggle for freedom, presented in a classic and accessible edition.
By Nikolai V Gogol
Everyman's Library 1930
Hardback
Very Good Used Condition - see images Please Note: There is a protective plastic cover that could easily be removed.
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