The Luzhin Defense

Historical Context and Significance

"The Luzhin Defense" by Vladimir Nabokov is a novel that explores the theme of genius and madness through the story of chess grandmaster Alexander Luzhin. The book was written in 1929-1930 and first published in 1930. It is considered one of Nabokov's key works written in Russian, showcasing his mastery in creating complex psychological portraits. The novel had a significant impact on 20th-century literature, especially in the context of studying the human psyche and inner world. "The Luzhin Defense" also contributed to the popularization of chess in culture, presenting it not only as a game but as a metaphor for life and struggle. The book was highly praised by critics and continues to be an important work in the literary canon.