Music in nineteenth-century Russian literature: aspects of the place of music and musicians in works by Pushkin, Turgenev, Dostoyevsky, Tolstoy and Chekhov

Abstract

In endeavouring to give an impression of the importance and magnitude of music's place in Russian Literature, this thesis focuses on works by Turgenev, Tolstoy, Chekhov and, to a lesser extent, Dostoyevsky. Reference to Pushkin is essentially confined to Mozart i Salieri. Attention has been concentrated on three major aspects of the topic. Accordingly, it is divided into three corresponding parts, which, although not amorphous, are fairly broadly defined. Part One investigates portraits of musician-figures, whose company includes composers, musicians and singers. Conspicuous amongst them are humble, lowly figures. Part Two examines the use of music to create a sense of the atmosphere of the period and locale in which the works are set. In this context, attention is focused particularly on music's role as part of the process of characterization. Characters are defined by their musical talents, tastes and appreciation. Part Three analyzes allusions to, and illustrations of music's 'power'. It can provide succour in times of trouble, sorrow or confusion, appropriately complementing and transforming moods. Most conspicuous is music's power to inspire love. But, also, music can exert a more sinister influence. Implicit throughout the multifarious references to music in the literature surveyed is a recognition, by the writers, of music's very real and considerable importance and power for people.