Who Can Be Happy and Free in Russia

Historical Context and Significance

«Who Can Be Happy and Free in Russia» is a poem by Nikolai Alekseevich Nekrasov, written between 1863 and 1877. This work is considered one of the outstanding achievements of Russian literature and is a vivid example of poetry dedicated to the difficult situation of the peasant population in Russia during and after the era of serfdom. Through lyrical storytelling and the images of the main characters—peasants setting out to find a 'good man'—Nekrasov illustrates the people's suffering and their dream of justice. The poem had a significant impact on public consciousness, contributing to the formation of ideas about the need for change in Russian society.