Borodino

Summary

The poem «Borodino» by Mikhail Yuryevich Lermontov is dedicated to one of the pivotal battles of the Patriotic War of 1812 — the Battle of Borodino. A war veteran recounts to the younger generation the heroism of Russian soldiers, their courage, and selflessness. He recalls how the Russian army, despite being outnumbered, fought with incredible resilience and bravery. The poem conveys a patriotic spirit and pride for the homeland, as well as mourning for the fallen heroes.

Main Ideas

• Patriotism and love for the homeland
• Heroism and self-sacrifice of Russian soldiers
• Remembrance of the past and respect for history
• Courage and resilience in battle
• Criticism of indifference and forgetting the ancestors' feats

Historical Context and Significance

The poem «Borodino» by Mikhail Yuryevich Lermontov holds significant historical and cultural importance. Written in 1837, it is dedicated to the Battle of Borodino in 1812, a key moment in the Patriotic War against Napoleon. In his work, Lermontov conveys the spirit of patriotism and heroism of Russian soldiers, their resilience, and courage. The poem became a symbol of national pride and remembrance of the great feat of the Russian people. It had a profound impact on Russian literature and culture, inspiring subsequent generations to preserve historical memory and patriotism. «Borodino» also played a crucial role in shaping national consciousness and strengthening the sense of unity among Russians.

Style and Technique

The poem «Borodino» by Mikhail Yuryevich Lermontov is written in the genre of lyrical-epic poetry. The poem consists of 28 quatrains, written in iambic tetrameter with alternate rhyming. Lermontov uses simple yet expressive language that conveys the spirit of the era and patriotic feelings. The poem includes elements of folk language, making it accessible and understandable to a wide audience. Literary techniques include the use of dialogue, retrospective narration, epithets, metaphors, and hyperbole. The structure of the poem includes an introduction, a main part describing the events of the Battle of Borodino, and a conclusion that sums up and expresses pride in the Russian people's feat.

Interesting Facts

• The poem was written in 1837 and is dedicated to the Battle of Borodino in 1812.
• The work is based on stories from veterans of the 1812 war, whom Lermontov knew personally.
• The poem consists of 28 quatrains and is narrated from the perspective of a common soldier.
• Lermontov uses colloquial language and simple yet vivid imagery to convey the atmosphere of the battle.
• The work has become one of the most famous and beloved in Russian literature, often quoted and studied in schools.

Book Review

The poem «Borodino» by Mikhail Yuryevich Lermontov is one of the most renowned works of Russian literature dedicated to the Patriotic War of 1812. In this work, the author masterfully conveys the spirit of patriotism and heroism of the Russian people. Lermontov uses simple yet expressive imagery to depict the courage and resilience of soldiers fighting for their homeland. Critics note that the poem is characterized by its brevity and emotional richness, making it memorable and deeply moving for readers. Special attention is given to the dialogue of the old soldier recounting the battle, which lends the work authenticity and vividness. Lermontov's «Borodino» not only celebrates the feat of the Russian people but also serves as a reminder of the importance of historical memory and national unity.