The Steel Flea

Summary

The book «The Steel Flea» by Nikolai Leskov tells the story of a Russian craftsman named Lefty, who managed to shoe an English steel flea. The tale begins with Emperor Alexander I visiting England and being impressed by the achievements of English craftsmen, particularly the steel flea that can dance. Upon returning to Russia, the emperor tasks his people with finding craftsmen who can surpass the English. The Tula craftsmen, including Lefty, accept the challenge and shoe the flea, which becomes a symbol of Russian skill and ingenuity. However, despite his talents, Lefty faces misunderstanding and neglect from the authorities. Ultimately, he dies in poverty, leaving behind only the memory of his remarkable craftsmanship.

Main Ideas

• Contrast between Russian and Western mentalities
• Patriotism and national pride
• Skill and talent of the common people
• Critique of bureaucracy and officialdom
• Tragedy of unrecognized and undervalued talent

Historical Context and Significance

Nikolai Leskov's novella «The Steel Flea» holds significant historical and cultural importance in Russian literature. Written in 1881, it is a vivid example of the skaz genre, which Leskov masterfully used to convey the folk language and wisdom. The story of the Russian craftsman Lefty, who managed to shoe an English steel flea, symbolizes the talent and skill of the ordinary Russian people, their diligence and resourcefulness. The novella also reflects themes of patriotism and national pride, contrasting Russian ingenuity and craftsmanship with Western technology and science. «The Steel Flea» influenced the development of Russian literature, becoming one of the classic works studied in schools and universities. It also inspired numerous adaptations in theater and film, becoming an integral part of Russia's cultural heritage.

Main Characters and Their Development

• Lefty - the main character, a talented Tula gunsmith who managed to shoe the English steel flea. Lefty embodies the folk wisdom and skill, despite his simplicity and illiteracy. His development in the book shows how he remains true to his craft and homeland despite all hardships and adversities.
• Emperor Alexander I - the Russian emperor who sends his envoys to England to learn the secrets of English craftsmen. His interest in technical innovations and desire to improve Russian production highlight his progressive views.
• Platov - a Don Cossack who accompanies the Russian craftsmen to England. He is skeptical of foreign achievements and believes in the superiority of Russian craftsmen. His development in the book shows how he gradually acknowledges the talent of Lefty and other Russian craftsmen.
• English craftsmen - a collective image representing the highly developed technical culture of England. They evoke admiration and envy among the Russian characters but ultimately recognize Lefty's craftsmanship.
• Emperor Nicholas I - the Russian emperor who receives Lefty after his return from England. His attitude towards Lefty and his work reflects the complex relationship of authority with folk talents and innovations.

Style and Technique

Nikolai Leskov's story «The Steel Flea» is written in the skaz genre, which involves the use of colloquial language and folk expressions. Leskov masterfully conveys the nuances of Russian speech, including dialects and vernacular, giving the text authenticity and liveliness. The author uses irony and satire to critique the social and political phenomena of his time. The structure of the story is linear, with a clear development of events and a climax. Leskov also employs hyperbole and grotesque to enhance the artistic effect. Details play an important role in creating vivid and memorable images of characters and situations.

Quotes

• The English say: «We don't clean our cannons with bricks»
• Lefty said: «We Russians can do anything, as long as we're not mistreated and humiliated, and given the chance to work and live decently»

Interesting Facts

• The main character of the book, Lefty, is a gunsmith from Tula who managed to shoe a flea created by English craftsmen.
• The book is a satire on Russian bureaucracy and highlights the contrast between Russian and foreign craftsmen.
• Lefty used microscopic horseshoes and nails to shoe the flea, symbolizing the skill and inventiveness of Russian artisans.
• The book emphasizes Lefty's patriotism, who, despite offers to stay in England, returns to his homeland.
• The work is also known by the title «The Tale of the Cross-eyed Lefty from Tula and the Steel Flea».
• Lefty dies in poverty, highlighting the tragic fate of talented individuals in Russia at that time.

Book Review

«The Steel Flea» by Nikolai Leskov is a vivid example of 19th-century Russian literature, combining elements of folk folklore and satire. Critics praise Leskov's skill in creating characters, especially the main character — the talented Tula craftsman Lefty, who shoed the flea. Leskov uses this plot to showcase the uniqueness of the Russian people, their skill and ingenuity, while also critiquing the bureaucratic system and societal flaws. The work is filled with irony and subtle humor, making it not only instructive but also engaging to read. Critics also emphasize the importance of Leskov's language, his ability to convey folk speech and the color of the era.