First Love, and Other Stories

Turgenev's works capture the essence of 19th-century Russian society, reflecting the anxieties and aspirations of his contemporaries. His debut collection, A Sportsman's Sketches, marked a turning point in Russian realism, while his acclaimed novel Fathers and Sons explores generational conflict and societal change. Influenced by German culture, Turgenev advocated for Western ideals as a means for Russia's progress. His shorter novels, including The Diary of a Superfluous Man, further delve into the complexities of identity and existence in a rapidly evolving world.