The History of a Town
Style and Technique
«The History of a Town» by Mikhail Saltykov-Shchedrin is a satirical novel in which the author employs grotesque and hyperbole to critique social and political orders. The language of the work is rich with ironic and sarcastic tones, highlighting the absurdity of the events and characters described. Literary devices include allegory and parody, which help the author mock bureaucracy and despotism. The structure of the narrative consists of a sequential account of the history of the fictional town of Glupov, with each chapter dedicated to the rule of a different mayor, allowing the depiction of societal and governmental degradation. Saltykov-Shchedrin masterfully uses recurring motifs and symbols to enhance the satirical impact on the reader.
