Fathers and Sons has a complex structure and multi-level conflict. Outwardly, it is a contradiction between two generations of people. But this eternal conflict between fathers and children is complicated by ideological and philosophical differences. Turgenev's task was to show the harmful influence of certain philosophical movements on modern youth, in particular nihilism.

What is Nihilism?

Nihilism is an ideological and philosophical trend, according to which, there are no and cannot be authorities, none of the postulates should be taken on faith. Bazarov's nihilism (as he himself notes) is a merciless denial of everything. The philosophical basis for the formation of nihilistic doctrine was German materialism. It is no coincidence that Arkady and Bazarov suggest that Nikolai Petrovich read Buchner instead of Pushkin, in particular his work "Matter and Force". Bazarov's position was formed not only under the influence of books, teachers, but also from live observation of life. Bazarov's quotes about nihilism confirm this. In a dispute with Pavel Petrovich, he says that he would gladly agree if Pavel Petrovich presented him "at least one decree in our modern life, in family or public, which would not cause complete and merciless denial."

Basic nihilistic ideas of the hero

Bazarov's nihilism is manifested in his attitude to various spheres of life. In the first part of the novel, there is a clash of two ideas, two representatives of the older and younger generations - Evgeny Bazarov and Pavel Petrovich Kirsanov. They immediately dislike each other, and then sort things out in polemics.

Art

Bazarov speaks most harshly about art. He considers it a useless sphere that gives nothing to a person, except for stupid romanticism. Art, according to Pavel Petrovich, is a spiritual sphere. It is thanks to him that a person develops, learns to love and think, understand another, recognize the world.

Nature

Bazarov's comment about nature looks somewhat blasphemous: “Nature is not a temple, but a workshop. And the person is a worker in it. " The hero does not see her beauty, does not feel harmony with her. In contrast to this review, Nikolai Petrovich walks through the garden, admiring the beauty of spring. He cannot understand how Bazarov does not see all this, how he can remain so indifferent to God's creation.

The science

What does Bazarov value? After all, he cannot have a sharply negative attitude towards everything. The only thing the hero sees value and benefit is science. Science as the basis of knowledge, human development. Of course, Pavel Petrovich, as an aristocrat and a representative of the older generation, also appreciates and respects science. However, for Bazarov, the ideal is the German materialists. For them love, affection, feelings do not exist, for them a person is just an organic system in which certain physical and chemical processes take place. Leans towards the same paradoxical thoughts and the main character the novel "Fathers and Sons".

Bazarov's nihilism is questioned, he is tested by the author of the novel. Hence, an internal conflict arises, which no longer occurs in the Kirsanovs' house, where Bazarov and Pavel Petrovich argue every day, but in the soul of Evgeny himself.

Russia's future and nihilism

Bazarov, as a representative of the advanced direction of Russia, is interested in its future. So, according to the hero, in order to build a new society, you first need to "clear the place."

what does it mean? Of course, the expression of the hero can be interpreted as a call for revolution. The development of the country must begin with cardinal changes, with the destruction of everything old. At the same time, Bazarov reproaches the generation of aristocratic liberals for their inaction. Bazarov speaks of nihilism as the most effective direction. But it is worth saying that the nihilists themselves have not done anything yet. Bazarov's actions are manifested only in words. Thus, Turgenev emphasizes that the heroes - representatives of the older and younger generations - are very much alike in some way. Evgeny's views are very frightening (this is confirmed by Bazarov's quotes about nihilism). After all, on what, first of all, is any state built? On traditions, culture, patriotism. But if there are no authorities, if you do not value art, the beauty of nature, do not believe in God, then what remains for people? Turgenev was very afraid that such ideas could come true, that Russia would then have a very hard time.

Internal conflict in the novel. Love test

There are two key characters in the novel who allegedly play a cameo role. In fact, they reflect Turgenev's attitude to nihilism, they debunk this phenomenon. Bazarov's nihilism begins to be comprehended by him in a slightly different way, although the author does not directly tell us this. So, in the city, Evgeny and Arkady meet Sitnikov and Kukshina. They are forward-thinking people who are interested in everything new. Sitnikov is an adherent of nihilism, he expresses his admiration for Bazarov. At the same time, he himself behaves like a jester, he shouts out nihilistic slogans, it all looks ridiculous.

Zarov treats him with obvious contempt. Kukshina is an emancipated woman, simply slovenly, stupid and rude. That's all there is to say about the heroes. If they are the representatives of nihilism, on which Bazarov has such great hopes, then what is the future of the country? From that moment on, doubts appear in the hero's soul, which intensify when he meets Odintsov. The strength and weakness of Bazarov's nihilism manifest themselves precisely in the chapters that speak of the hero's love feelings. He opposes his love in every possible way, because this is all stupid and unnecessary romanticism. But his heart tells him something else. Odintsova sees that Bazarov is smart and interesting, that there is a grain of truth in his ideas, but their categorical nature betrays the weakness and doubtfulness of his beliefs.

Turgenev's attitude to his hero

It is not for nothing that a stormy controversy unfolded around the novel "Fathers and Sons". First, the topic was very topical. Secondly, many representatives literary criticism were, like Bazarov, carried away by the philosophy of materialism. Third, the novel was bold, talented, and new.

There is an opinion that Turgenev condemns his hero. That he slanders the younger generation, seeing only bad in him. But this opinion is wrong. If you look at the figure of Bazarov more closely, you can see in him a strong, purposeful and noble nature. Bazarov's nihilism is only an external manifestation of his mind. Turgenev, rather, feels disappointed that such a talented person is fixated on such an unjustified and limited teaching. Bazarov cannot but arouse admiration. He is daring and daring, he is smart. But besides that, he is also kind. It is no coincidence that all peasant children are drawn to him.

As for the author's assessment, it is most fully manifested in the finale of the novel. Bazarov's grave, to which his parents come, is literally buried in flowers and greenery, birds sing over it. It is unnatural for parents to bury their children. The protagonist's convictions were also unnatural. And nature, eternal, beautiful and wise, confirms that Bazarov was wrong when he saw in her only material for achieving human goals.

Thus, Turgenev's novel Fathers and Sons can be seen as a debunking of nihilism. Bazarov's attitude to nihilism is not just a commitment, it is a philosophy of life. But this doctrine is questioned not only by representatives of the older generation, but also by life itself. Bazarov, in love and suffering, perishes by chance, science is unable to help him, and above his grave, Mother Nature is still beautiful and calm.

What does Turgenev mean by nihilism?

Turgenev, one of best writers classics of Russian literature, recalls that after his return to St. Petersburg, when his novel was just published, he discovered that this term had already been picked up by many residents of the city. At that time, in 1862, fires broke out in St. Petersburg, and the first thing that the writer heard when he arrived in St. Petersburg was the use of the term "nihilists" in the address of arsonists.

What does Turgenev mean by nihilism? He began writing the novel at a time when it had not yet been canceled. serfdomwhen a revolutionary mood was growing in society, and against this background the ideas of denying and destroying the old order, old authorities and principles clearly emerged. The novel clearly shows the ideas of the democratic movement, which is forming and developing under the sign of the denial of the order of a noble-serf society, noble culture, and the old world.

Nihilism, from the point of view of the writer, is a denial of old principles and foundations.

In his work, the writer illuminates moral, philosophical and political problems and raises the eternal question of the relationship between fathers and children. Emphasizes the importance of love, friendship, personality formation, as well as the importance for each person of his choice life path and self-determination.

The image of Bazarov in the work is endowed with vivid features of a nihilist, the hero openly opposes all the old principles, which becomes the cause of both Bazarov's internal conflict and the hostile misunderstanding of those around him.

In the novel, Turgenev demonstrated that a nihilistic philosophy is not viable. He deliberately painted pictures of the impoverished Russian serf villages in order to show the existing social inequality in the country, the unjust government of the ruling class. But at the same time, the nihilism of Bazarov in the novel "Fathers and Sons" along with his hero remains alone, since his ideas and worldview were not accepted even by the closest supporters - Kukshin, Sitnikov and Arkady, who betrayed his ideals.

Bazarov, who denied the existence of love, eventually himself underwent its trials, which he could not stand and broke down. The hero-nihilist, who claimed that the mysterious female gaze is nothing more than artistic nonsense, falls in love with Anna Odintsova and with horror discovers the presence of romance in himself. The whole tragedy of the situation lies in the fact that Bazarov's love turned out to be non-reciprocal, doomed.

Video about Bazarov's nihilism in the novel "Fathers and Sons"

The novel ends with the death of Bazarov, who contracted typhus by opening the corpse of a peasant. Before his death, the hero shows all his best qualities: poetic love for Anna, tender, kind feelings towards parents, who were previously hidden under external severity, courage, strong spirit, thirst for life.

With this ending, Turgenev shows the reader the personality of Bazarov, as a strong-willed person, capable of influencing those around him. However, since society was not yet ready to accept his worldview, this hero turned out to be "superfluous" - his time had not come yet.

Thus, Turgenev quite vividly revealed the concept of "nihilism" in the novel "Fathers and Sons" on the example of his hero Bazarov. A hero of all times and peoples, who is born in a place where there is no social justice and well-being.

What is nihilism in the modern sense?

Since the time of Turgenev, the concept of "nihilism" has gradually acquired a broader meaning. So, today this term is used in philosophy, and in politics, and in everyday life... However, to the question "What is nihilism?" there is an unambiguous definition: it is a worldview, a position that not only casts doubt on, but also categorically denies generally accepted values: ideals, moral norms, forms of social life, generally accepted concepts of morality. There are several types of nihilism:

• Moral nihilism.
• Legal nihilism.
• Mereological nihilism.
• Epistemological.
• Metaphysical.
• Philosophical and worldview nihilism.

A nihilist is a person who does not recognize any authorities, does not take any principles on faith, criticizes any point of view, whatever it may be.

Moral nihilists have a position of denial of both moral and immoral foundations.

Legal nihilism - a negative attitude towards law, which can be expressed in varying degrees of intensity. Thus, passive and active forms of legal nihilism are distinguished.

• The passive form is characterized by disbelief in legal possibilities. Legal nihilists do not recognize the positive role of law in society.
• The active form is expressed in a hostile attitude towards the laws, the promotion of a personal worldview among the people around. Such citizens can also be called anarchists.

Video on Legal Nihilism

Legal nihilism can be inherent both in society as a whole and in a social group or individual citizen, but none of the listed categories deliberately violates legal norms. That is, legal nihilists only do not recognize the right and do not believe in its social value.

The origins of this attitude towards generally established legal norms is a lack of confidence in the authorities, the consideration of laws as instructions from the government. Also, the reason for the development of such civic positions can serve as an example of impunity of an official, a discrepancy between the prescriptions of laws and reality, vicious actions of justice, etc. rights and protection from arbitrariness.

Epistemological nihilists characterized by their negative attitude to knowledge.

Nihilism in Russia

Nihilism exists only in Russia and post-Soviet countries. Inhabitants of Western European countries do not have such a phenomenon. Such attitudes began to form in the 50-60s of the 19th century. Their main ideologists are Pisarev, Dobrolyubov, Chernyshevsky. Also, some nihilistic features were inherent in Lenin, although he lived in a different era.

Despite the fact that Russian nihilism meant the denial of God, spirit, soul, norms and higher values, this phenomenon is still considered a religious phenomenon, since it arose on spiritual Orthodox soil. The basis of pure Russian nihilism is the Orthodox denial of the world, the feeling of the world abiding in evil, the attitude to wealth, luxury, creative excess in art and thoughts, as to sins.

Nihilism of Nietzsche

The nihilism of Nietzsche, a German philosopher and philologist, implies the devaluation of high values. That is, he connected values \u200b\u200band the nature of a person who devalues \u200b\u200bthem and at the same time still tries to hold on to them. Nietzsche argued that if a person falls, then you should not substitute your shoulder for him. If a person was hit on the right cheek, then you should not substitute the left. He also believed that compassion is a destructive quality for a person, and therefore denied compassion for others.

Nihilism in Nietzsche's philosophy is the idea of \u200b\u200ba superman, the embodiment of the Christian ideal, free in all respects. He taught to respond to force with force, to be courageous, daring, to rely only on ourselves. Kind people he considered them hypocrites, since they never speak the truth in person. Therefore, as he argued, the right person is an evil person who does not spare his loved ones.

The consequences of nihilism

Today, many argue over whether nihilism is a disease or a cure for disease. The philosophy of the nihilists denies values \u200b\u200bsuch as moral principles and spiritual life - love, nature, art. But human morality is based precisely on these fundamental concepts.

Every sane person should understand that there are values \u200b\u200bin the world that cannot be denied: love for life, love for people, striving for happiness and enjoying beauty.

How do you feel about nihilists? Do you consider Bazarov in Turgenev's novel a real nihilist? Share your opinion in the comments.

The novel "Fathers and Sons" was written by I.S. Turgenev in 1862, a year after the abolition of serfdom. The action of the novel takes place in 1859 on the eve of the reform. It is quite natural that the main character is new hero Russian literature - a revolutionary nihilist, a commoner-democrat.

The origin of Bazarov

Evgeny Vasilievich Bazarov comes from a simple peasant family. His grandfather "plowed the land", his father and mother live modestly and simply, while taking care of his son's future - they gave him an excellent medical education. Knowing about peasant life firsthand, Bazarov is well aware that significant changes are coming. In his mind, a plan has matured to reorganize the social order, which consists in the absolute destruction of the past and building a new world.

Bazarov - new person... He is a nihilist, a materialist who does not obey illusions, who checks everything empirically. Bazarov is fond of natural sciences, he works all day, looking for something new.

A person, according to Bazarov, is a person with knowledge. He is sure that it is labor that makes a person out of a person. Evgeny Vasilievich always finds himself where his knowledge will be useful. It is profitable ex

he derives from other heroes and "superfluous" people, as well as from people of a new formation.

Bazarov is often rude and harsh in his statements: about women, about the past, about feelings. It seems to him that all this hinders the construction of a healthy society of the future. All who do not know how to work are not needed by humanity. In many ways, it can be considered wrong. What is only the denial of the basic values \u200b\u200bof human existence: love, respect, principles, nature as a temple, the human soul.

The importance of the hero to society

Probably, such people were necessary for the Russian society in order to stir it up, make it look at everything that happens from the outside. New people appear in society only during periods of historical upheaval; they have special spiritual power, steadfastness and steadfastness, the ability not to hide from the truth and be honest with themselves even on the brink of death.

Bazarov the nihilist understands perfectly well that life will never be easy, sacrifices will be needed from any person. And he is ready for them, without betraying a single gram of his convictions. This makes it the most attractive for both contemporaries and the current reader.

Love in the life of Bazarov

The strength of his spirituality extends to Bazarov's love feeling for Anna Odintsova, a strong and independent woman. He was captivated by her mind, uncommon views on the events taking place. Realizing that she cannot sacrifice everything for him, he confesses his feelings to her. Unrequited love for Anna Sergeevna seems to knock him out of his usual way of life. But it seems to me that if death had not prevented, Bazarov would have been able to overcome himself and his unhappy feelings, which he imagined for the weakness of his own personality.

Debunking Bazarov's theory

Sometimes strange and unusual, the hero of I.S. Turgenev admires readers with a set of qualities of a "perfect person": strength of mind, determination, persistence, persuasion, etc., although it is impossible to agree with Bazarov in everything. His theory fails, and the hero realizes this - beauty, love and kindness become an integral part of his soul. And with them he dies without finding an application for his convictions.

The word nihilism is familiar to many people, but only a few know its true meaning. Literally translated, nihilists are "nothing" from the Latin language. From here, you can understand who the nihilists are, that is, people in a certain subculture and trend who deny norms, ideals and generally accepted norms. Such people can often be found in a crowd or among creative people with out-of-the-box thinking.

Nihilists are ubiquitous, in numerous literary publications and sources of information they are spoken of as a complete denial, especially a state of mind and a social and moral phenomenon. But historians say that for each era and time period, nihilists and the concept of nihilism denoted several different trends and concepts. Few people know, for example, that Nietzsche was a nihilist, as well as a large number of famous literary men.

The word nihilism comes from the Latin language, where nihil is translated as "nothing." It follows from this that a nihilist is a person who is in the stage of complete denial of the concepts, norms and traditions imposed by society, in addition, he may show a negative attitude towards some and even all aspects of social life. Each cultural and historical era implied a special manifestation of nihilism.

History of origin

For the first time, people encountered such a cultural trend as nihilism back in the Middle Ages, then nihilism was presented as a special teaching. Pope Alexander III became its first representative in 1179. There is also a false version of the doctrine of nihilism, which was attributed to scholasticism Peter, this semblance of subculture denied the human nature of Christ.

Later nihilism touched and western cultureFor example, in Germany it was called Nihilismus, and it was first used by the writer F.G. Jacobi, who later became known as a philosopher. Some philosophers attribute the emergence of nihilism to the crisis of Christianity, accompanied by denial and protests. Nietzsche was also a nihilist, recognizing the current as an awareness of the inconsistency and even illusory nature of the Christian supra-worldly God, as well as the idea of \u200b\u200bprogress.

Expert opinion

Victor Brenz

Psychologist and self-development expert

Nihilists have always based on several statements, for example, there is no substantiated proof of higher powers, a creator and a ruler, there is also no objective morality in society, as well as truth in life, and no human action can be preferable to another.

Varieties

As mentioned earlier, the meaning of the word nihilist at different times and eras could be slightly different, but in any case, it was about a person's denial of objectivity, moral principles of society, traditions and norms. As the doctrine of nihilism arises and develops, its modifications over the eras and different cultures, today experts share several varieties of nihilism, namely:

• an ideological philosophical position that doubts or completely denies generally accepted values, morals, ideals and norms, as well as culture;
• nihilism is mereological, denying objects, consisting of particles;
• metaphysical nihilism, which considers the presence of objects in reality not at all necessary;
• epistemological nihilism, which completely denies any teachings and knowledge;
• legal nihilism, that is, the denial of a person's responsibilities in an active or passive manifestation, the same denial of established laws, norms and rules by the state;
• moral nihilism, namely a metaethical view that denies moral and immoral aspects in life and society.

Based on all varieties of nihilism, we can conclude that people with such concepts and principles deny any norms, stereotypes, morals and rules. According to most experts and specialists, this is the most controversial and sometimes conflicting worldview position that takes place, but does not always receive approval from society and psychologists.

Nihilist preferences

In fact, the nihilist of our day is a person who is based on spiritual minimalism and a special theory of mindfulness. The preferences of nihilists are based on the denial of any meaning, rule, norm, social rule, tradition or morality. Such people do not worship any rulers, they do not recognize authorities, do not believe in higher powers, deny the laws and requirements of the public.

Do you consider yourself a nihilist?

YesNo

Psychologists note that nihilism is in fact a close flow to realism, but at the same time it relies exclusively on a factual base. This is a kind of skepticism, thinking at a critical point, but in the form of an extended philosophical interpretation. Experts also note the reasons for the emergence of nihilism - a heightened sense of self-preservation and human egoism, nihilists recognize only the material, denying the spiritual.

Nihilists in literature

A well-known literary work that touched on the concept of nihilism is the story "Nihilist" by the author Sophia Kovalevskaya about the Russian revolutionary movement. The denunciation of "nihilism" in the form of gross caricature can be traced in such well-known literary workssuch as "The Break" by Goncharov, "At the Knives" by Leskov, "The Shaken Sea" by Pisemsky, "Marevo" by Klyushnikov, "Fracture" and "Abyss" by Markevich and many other works.

"Fathers and Sons"

Nihilists in Russian literature are, first of all, the heroes from Turgenev's books, remembered by everyone, for example, the reflective nihilist Bazarov and followed his ideology Sitnikov and Kukushkin. Bazarov's atypical ideological position can already be traced in dialogues and disputes with Kirsanov Pavel Petrovich, showing a different attitude towards the common people. In Fathers and Sons, the nihilist expresses a pronounced rejection of art and literature.

Nietzsche

It is also known that Nietzsche was a nihilist, his nihilism consisted in the devaluation of high values. Philosopher and philologist, Nietzsche linked the nature of man and values, but immediately emphasized that man himself devalues \u200b\u200beverything. The famous philosopher insisted that compassion is a destructive quality, even when it comes to loved ones. His nihilism is nothing more than the idea of \u200b\u200ba superman and a Christian ideal that is free in every sense.

Dostoevsky

In the works of Fyodor Mikhailovich Dostoevsky, there are also nihilistic characters. In the writer's understanding, a nihilist is a type of tragic thinker, rebel and denier of social norms, as well as an opponent of God himself. If we consider the work "Demons", the character Shatov, Stavrogin and Kirillov became a nihilist. This can also include Dostoevsky's book Crime and Punishment, where nihilism reached the brink of murder.

What kind of nihilist is he today?

Many philosophers are inclined to think that modern man in itself is already a nihilist to some extent, although the modern trend of nihilism has already branched out into other subspecies. Many people, even without knowing the essence of nihilism, sail a ship during their lives, which is called nihilism. A modern nihilist is a person who does not recognize any values, generally accepted norms and morals, does not bow to any will.

List of notable nihilists

For an illustrative example of behavior, experts conducted research, after which they compiled a list of the most memorable personalities from different eras, promoting nihilism.

Notable nihilists list:

• Sergei Gennadievich Nechaev - revolutionary of Russia and author of the "Catechism of the Revolutionary";
• Erich Fromm is a German philosopher, sociologist and psychologist who considers the term nihilism;
• Wilhelm Reich - Austrian and American psychologist, the only student of Freud to analyze nihilism;
• Nietzsche is a nihilist who denied the existence of material and spiritual values.
• Seren Kierkegaard is a nihilist and Danish religious philosopher and writer.
• O. Spengler - promoted the idea of \u200b\u200bsunset european culture and forms of consciousness.

Based on all interpretations and trends, it is difficult to clearly characterize the essence of nihilism. In each epoch and time interval, nihilism proceeded in different ways, denying either religion, then the world, then humanity, then power.

Conclusion

Nihilism is a radical trend that denies everything valuable in the world, from spiritual to material benefits of mankind. Nihilists adhere to absolute freedom from power, state, prosperity, faith, higher powers and society. Today, the modern nihilist is significantly different from those who appeared in the Middle Ages.

Fathers and Sons novelwas written in 1862. In this work, the author touched upon political, philosophical and aesthetic problems, vividly reflected real life conflicts, revealed the essence of the ideological struggle between the main social forces in Russia in the early 60s of the 19th century. The central figure of the novel is the commoner Evgeny Bazarov.

At the first meeting of Bazarov with the rest of the heroes, the author presents us with the appearance young man... The clothes, manners and behavior of the hero speak of his belonging to the common people, and that he is proud of it, and he does not intend to observe the rules of etiquette of the aristocratic nobility. He is a man of firm and uncompromising convictions, a man of action. Bazarov is a nihilist. He is an experimenter who is passionate about science and medicine, works tirelessly. Bazarov is dismissive of art and human feelings: "Raphael is not worth a dime." does not recognize the beauty of nature: “Nature is not a temple, but a workshop, and man is a worker in it.” The hero does not believe in love, denies its existence, claims that this is all “romanticism” or “nonsense”. He believes that there is no love, but only physiology or "needs of the body."

Before meeting Odintsova, Bazarov is a man of a sober and deep mind, confident in his abilities, proud and purposeful. He defends the ideas of nihilism, argued with Pavel Petrovich, admitting that the main task of nihilists is to break everything old in order to “clear a place”, and building is not their business. possessing the ability to influence other people, he suppresses them with his knowledge, logic and will. As soon as relations between Bazarov and Odintsova begin to develop, the author shows how the hero changes. At first, Odintsov attracted Bazarov only outwardly, as he puts it "physiologically": "What kind of figure is this? Doesn't look like other women", "she has such shoulders as I have not seen for a long time." But as they communicate closely, Bazarov can no longer maintain his usual self-control and self-control, and is completely immersed in thoughts about Anna Sergeevna. Odintsova tried to choose topics for conversations that were interesting to Bazarov, and supported them, which could not but influence the relationship between the characters. The author speaks of the changes that took place in the hero as follows: “In Bazarov, whom Anna Sergeevna obviously favored, although she rarely agreed with him, an unprecedented anxiety began to appear: he was easily irritated, spoke reluctantly, looked angrily, and could not sit still, as if something was washing him away. " For Bazarov himself, love for Madame Odintsova became a serious test of his loyalty to nihilistic ideals. He deeply experienced what he himself rejected: "in conversations with Anna Sergeyevna, he expressed his indifferent contempt for everything romantic more and more than before, and when left alone, he indignantly recognized the romantic in himself." Calling Bazarov to be frank, Odintsova rejected his love. She liked him: “He struck Madame Odintsova: he occupied her, she thought a lot about him.” But her usual way of life and comfort was dearer to her than a fleeting hobby for Yevgeny Bazarov. Unhappy love leads Bazarov to a severe mental crisis. The beliefs of nihilism conflict with its humanity. At this moment, the hero no longer sees the goal, the meaning of life. He leaves for his parents because of idleness, and in order to distract himself, he begins to help his father in his medical practice. An accidental infection with typhus led to the death of his body, but not of his soul, the soul in him had long since died, unable to pass the test of love. Turgenev showed the inconsistency of Bazarov's position. In his novel, he debunks the theory of nihilism. Human nature is meant to love, admire, feel, live life to the fullest. Denying all this, a person condemns himself to death. We see this on the example of the fate of Yevgeny Bazarov.

So the writer debunks the popular nihilistic theory of his time and asserts the priority of unshakable cultural and ethical principles.

"I.S. Turgenev was introduced to a wide range of readers in 1861, at a difficult time for the state threatening revolution. The two main opposing camps, the noble liberals and the revolutionary democrats, understood that the onset of change was inevitable, but the former advocated the introduction of reforms, and the latter - for radical changes.

The protagonist of the work acts as a "new man" in the understanding of Turgenev. He did not have a very attractive appearance, often showed impudence, harshness in judgments and categorical statements. But nevertheless, he is endowed with an extraordinary mind and fresh ideas.

Arkady Kirsanov cannot be called a true associate of Bazarov. Although he considers it significant and predominantly defines for himself as a wonderful person, for Arkady a great test is the maximalist pressure of Bazarov's demands. Kirsanov considers love and family to be the main things for himself, and not progressive ideas.

They cause contempt from Bazarov, but are "necessary" for the execution of dubious assignments. Using a technique such as satire, Turgenev describes these two characters, making a conscious emphasis on their stupidity, incoherence and licentiousness.

Sitnikov characterizes Kukshina as an "advanced". In those days, divorces were rare, but Avdotya Nikitichna "parted" with her husband. But he doesn't know how to dispose of his independence. A disorderly life and periodic scandals are her lot.

Sitnikov, although he positions himself as a person of a progressive mind, nevertheless, is strenuously trying to integrate into a secular society, where his presence is not accepted. Nihilism for him is just a way to put on a mask of eccentricity, to hide his true origin and the ability to seem like an intelligent person.

Kukshina and Sitnikov are caricatured images that make a negative impression, possess cheeky manners and do not actually correspond to the definitions with which they associate themselves, being "pseudo-nihilists", constantly emphasizing advanced views. But in reality they are people of primitive and simple thinking. These characters are full of fake unnaturalness. These characteristics are clearly endowed by I.S. Turgenev Kukshina and Sitnikami on the pages of numerous examples of describing their words, behavior, appearance and manners.

It goes without saying that Bazarov should have like-minded people, but, in fact, they are absent, since "pseudo-nihilists" are not truly true to the convictions that they only hide behind in pursuit of their goals. Thus, we can come to the conclusion that loneliness overtook Bazarov in his aspirations and public views.

Bazarov differs from them primarily in his exceptional energy and courage, firmness of character and independence, developed in the struggle against everyday difficulties. “At the base main figure, Bazarov, - Turgenev later wrote, - lay down one personality of a young provincial doctor who struck me (he died shortly before 1860). In this remarkable man, before my very eyes, was embodied that barely born, still fermenting principle, which later received the name of nihilism. The impression made on me by this person was very strong and at the same time not entirely clear ... "" I dreamed of a dark, wild, large figure, half grown from the soil, strong, evil, honest - and yet doomed to destruction - because she still stands on the threshold of the future, I dreamed of some strange pendant with Pugachev. "

It is significant that Bazarov, the only one of all the heroes, does not have a backstory in which Turgenev usually gives a key to the character of the character, which he clearly does not want to do in the case of Bazarov (maybe he does not even know for certain how such characters develop). Unlike all nobles, Bazarov has the nature of an activist and a fighter. By tireless work he acquired fundamental knowledge in the natural sciences. Accustomed to relying only on his own mind and energy, Bazarov developed a calm self-confidence. The feeling of his power is involuntarily transmitted to others, even if it does not manifest itself in any way outwardly. He immediately puts himself in opposition to all people: "When I meet a person who would not pass up in front of me, then I will change my opinion about myself." He is not at all worried about what others think of him: “A real person should not care about this; a real person is the one about whom there is nothing to think about, but whom one must obey or hate. " No cordial ties connect him with people (characteristic in this respect is his relationship with his parents, for whom he has neither pity nor affection, although he tells Arkady that he “loves” them). It is from this that Bazarov's "harshness and unceremoniousness of tone" stems. He reduces the relationship between a man and a woman to physiology, art to “the art of making money or no more hemorrhoids”, that is. the whole world of beauty is completely alien to him, as well as the refined culture of feelings of the nobility, which he, together with religion and philosophy, calls “romanticism, nonsense, rottenness, art” (what is this synonymous row worth!).

From such an attitude to life, as well as from “immeasurable pride”, his life philosophy originates, bold, terrible and paradoxical, which consists in a total denial of all the foundations on which society is based, as well as in general all beliefs, ideals and norms of human life, when only naked scientific facts are accepted as truth. “A nihilist is a person who does not bow before any authorities, who does not accept a single principle on faith, no matter how respect this principle is surrounded,” Arkady formulates in the novel, apparently from the words of his teacher. This philosophy is a natural product of the crisis state of society. According to the exact definition of V.M. Markovich, “for Bazarov, it is indisputable that there is not a single“ resolution ”in our modern life, in the family or in the public, which would not cause complete and merciless denial”. For Bazarov, the possibility of unlimited freedom of the individual is indisputable: the "nihilist" is convinced that in his decisions aimed at altering life, a person is not morally bound by anything. The logic of history, "popular opinion", traditions, beliefs, authorities - all this should not have any power over individual consciousness and individual will. " Thus, Bazarov's nihilism extends to the public, personal and philosophical spheres.

Bazarov's public nihilism finds its fullest expression in a dispute with Pavel Petrovich. These two worthy opponents, convinced adherents of their own ideology, could not but collide, like two opposite charges. At the same time, it is characteristic that Pavel Petrovich is nervous and himself challenges Bazarov, while the latter, full of consciousness of his own strength and superiority, argues as if reluctantly, so as not to “talk in vain”.

On the question of the nature of the transformations in Russia, Bazarov stands for a decisive breakdown of the entire state and economic system. “There is not a single civil regulation in Russia that does not deserve criticism,” he said. However, he does not offer anything in return. In addition, Bazarov is not shown in any way in public activities and we do not know if he has real plans to implement his views in life. Pavel Petrovich Kirsanov, as a true liberal, is also convinced of the need for reforms, but against the senseless destruction of everything. He stands for "civilization" and "progress", i.e. for the path of reforms.

In the dispute about the leading social force, Pavel Petrovich points to the aristocracy, because only in it is the sense of self-worth developed to the highest degree, without which there can be no real citizen who respects the rights of others. "The aristocracy gave freedom to England and supports it." And the new people, “nihilists” (with this word to Pavel Petrovich, every time he “changes his self-esteem” and he breaks down to swear), are ignorant “fools” who have no support among the people, bearers of “brute Mongol power”, the number of whom, fortunately, only “four people and a half”. In response, Bazarov calls the nobles backward people, all of whose merits are in the past. Now they “sit with folded hands”, like Pavel Petrovich, in whom all “principles” and “self-esteem” have been reduced to demonstratively busy with their toilet, which is why one does not have much to wait for benefits for the bien public (public good).

On the issue of nationality and attitude towards the people, Pavel Petrovich unexpectedly turns out to be a devout Slavophile and proclaims that the Russian people are “patriarchal”, “sacredly honor traditions” and “cannot live without faith” and that therefore nihilists do not express their needs and are completely alien to them. In response, Bazarov calmly agrees with the assertion about the patriarchal nature of the people, but for him this is not at all the sacred foundation of national Russian life, but, on the contrary, evidence of the backwardness and ignorance of the people, their failure neither as a social force, nor even as an engine of the economy: “Freedom itself , about which the government is busy, will hardly be of use to us, because our peasant is glad to rob himself, just to get drunk in a tavern. ” Regarding the fact that he is alien to the people, Bazarov notes with “arrogant pride” that his “grandfather plowed the land”. He considers himself, in any case, closer to the people than Pavel Petrovich: "You condemn my direction, but who told you that it is in me by chance, that it is not caused by the very Russian spirit in whose name you stand up so much?" - which does not prevent him from despising the people at the same time, “if he deserves contempt”.

To the legitimate objection of Nikolai Petrovich: “You deny everything, or, more precisely, you destroy everything. Why, you have to build, too, "Bazarov remarks coolly:" This is no longer our business ... First we need to clear the place. " This phrase divorces Bazarov from the populists of the 60s, who also had a positive program, and makes his political position extremely vague and strange. "His mind resists any final decisions ... Therefore, rejecting old theories, Bazarov does not intend to trust new ones: will they not turn into dogmas that require obedience?" It is also not evident that Bazarov, like the Narodniks, thought to win over the people to his side: it seems that it is enough for him to “swear”. So, he bears little resemblance to a revolutionary, and nevertheless Turgenev captured in him the very spirit of revolutionary populism of those years, with his hatred of the existing order of things and renunciation of all public and civil goods. Bazarov appears before us as a kind of embodiment of the most negative energy, which moves and feeds every revolutionary movement.

In the personal sphere, Bazarov's nihilism consists in his denial of the entire culture of feelings and all ideals. “Bazarov rejects ... not only these or those social institutions and cultural traditions, but exactly everything - everything that people live with today, everything that binds them and brings them together, everything that moves them, that gives their life justification and meaning. Bazarov needs a different life and other people - on this score, Turgenev leaves no doubt. ” Bazarov generally denies the spiritual principle in man. He relates to man as to a biological organism: “All people are alike in body and soul; each of us has the same brain, spleen, heart, lungs; and the so-called moral qualities are the same for everyone: small modifications mean nothing. One human specimen is enough to judge all others. People are like trees in the forest; no botanist will take care of every single birch. ” Just as Bazarov judges the structure of human organs by a frog, he also thinks of judging a person in general and, moreover, about human society as a whole, based on the data of natural sciences: with the correct organization of society, it will be all the same whether a person is evil or good, stupid or smart. These are all just "moral diseases" like "bodily diseases" and caused by the "ugly state of society." "Correct the society, and there will be no disease."