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.