The Diaboliad

Book Review

The Diaboliad by Mikhail Bulgakov is a satirical novella that vividly illustrates the absurdity and bureaucratic confusion of Soviet reality in the 1920s. The protagonist, a minor clerk named Korotkov, encounters a series of absurd and tragicomic events that lead to his loss of job and identity. Bulgakov masterfully uses grotesque and irony to depict the dehumanization and madness of the system. Critics note that The Diaboliad is a precursor to Bulgakov's later and more famous works, such as The Master and Margarita, showcasing his unique style and ability to blend fantasy with realism. The novella is also seen as a reflection of the author's personal experiences and his struggle with bureaucratic structures. Overall, The Diaboliad is a witty and profound work that remains relevant even today.