Alexander Pushkin; translated by Natalie Duddington
The Captain’s Daughter by Alexander Pushkin, translated from the Russian by Natalie Duddington, is an engaging novella situated in eighteenth century Russia. The first-person narrator, Pyotr Andreyich Grinev finds himself embroiled in the historical rebellion of peasants and Cossacks against the government of Catherine II. The rebellion, led by Pugachov, was ultimately crushed, and Pugachov was executed.
The narrator begins his journey as a compassionate but naïve young man. As he sets off on his new career in the army, he has a chance encounter with a man freezing in a blizzard. He generously gives him a warm coat, an act that reaps benefits when he encounters the same man during the turmoil of the peasant’s rebellion and its ensuing bloodbath. Meanwhile, the narrator has fallen in love with the captain’s daughter and sets off on a hazardous mission to rescue her from the clutches of his rival. The novella has all the makings of a Sir Walter Scott historical romance but in a condensed and tighter structure.
One of the appeals of the novel lies in the relationship between the characters. Pugachov, the ostensible villain in the piece who leads the rebellion, is portrayed sympathetically despite his gruff mannerisms. He repays Pyotr Andreyich for his generosity by sparing his life and assisting him in rescuing his beloved. But the most delightful relationship is between the narrator and his servant, Savelyich. Their humorous bantering back and forth echoes the chatter of another famous duo, Don Quixote and his trusty servant, Sancho Panza. Savelyich is fiercely protective of his master, proffering practical advice and guidance. His down-to-earth wisdom serves Pyotr Andreyich well if he chooses to listen.
A romantic historical novella which includes the hero’s coming of age, blizzards, duels, a villain in military uniform, a sympathetic rebel leader, the heroic rescue of a damsel in distress, and an encounter with Catherine the Great set against the backdrop of a Russian rebellion. In the hands of Alexander Pushkin, the narrative exudes warmth and makes for a quick, delightful, and swashbuckling read.
Highly recommended, especially for those who enjoy Russian novels.