Who is the author of 'Doctor Zhivago'?

The author of 'Doctor Zhivago' is Boris Pasternak.

What are the main themes in 'Doctor Zhivago'?

The main themes in 'Doctor Zhivago' include Philosophy of Mind, Literature.

What genre is 'Doctor Zhivago'?

'Doctor Zhivago' is categorized as Literature.

What is the main plot of 'Doctor Zhivago'?

'Doctor Zhivago' by Boris Pasternak is a sweeping novel set against the backdrop of the Russian Revolution and the subsequent civil war. The story follows Yuri Zhivago, a physician and poet, as he navigates the tumultuous social and political upheavals of early 20th-century Russia. Yuri is torn between his love for two women: Tonya Gromeko, his devoted wife, and Lara Antipova, the passionate mother of a child he cares for. The narrative spans several years, depicting Yuri's personal struggles and the impact of the war and revolution on his life and relationships. The novel explores themes of love, loss, and the search for meaning in a rapidly changing world, blending personal and historical narratives in a rich tapestry of characters and events.

Who is the protagonist of the story and what are his main struggles?

The protagonist of 'Doctor Zhivago' is Yuri Zhivago. His main struggles include navigating the tumultuous political landscape of Russia during the early 20th century, particularly during World War I and the Russian Revolution. He also grapples with his personal identity as a physician and poet while balancing his intense romantic feelings for Lara Antipova and his responsibilities towards his family. Additionally, Yuri faces the challenges of loss, displacement, and the impacts of war on society and human relationships.

How does 'Doctor Zhivago' explore the theme of love amidst war?

'Doctor Zhivago' explores the theme of love amidst war through the complex relationships between characters, particularly Yuri Zhivago and Lara Antipova. The backdrop of World War I and the Russian Revolution serves as a catalyst for their love story, highlighting how personal connections can flourish in the midst of chaos and suffering. Pasternak illustrates that love can be a source of solace and strength, yet also a source of conflict and loss, as societal upheaval disrupts individual lives. The characters navigate their emotions against the harsh realities of war, depicting love as both a transformative experience and a poignant vulnerability in an unstable world. Ultimately, the novel suggests that love, while often overshadowed by the brutality of conflict, remains a profound and enduring human experience.

What role does the Russian Revolution play in the narrative of the book?

In 'Doctor Zhivago', the Russian Revolution serves as a backdrop that profoundly impacts the lives of the characters and the trajectory of the narrative. The revolution represents a time of upheaval and transformation in Russian society, affecting the personal and political landscapes in which the characters navigate their lives. The protagonist, Yuri Zhivago, experiences the chaos and brutality of the revolution firsthand, which influences his ideals, relationships, and sense of identity. As he grapples with the changes brought about by the revolution, themes of love, suffering, and loss emerge, highlighting the struggle between the individual's desires and the collective demands of society. The revolution's impact on social and political structures also symbolizes the broader conflict between personal freedom and the constraints imposed by historical forces. Ultimately, the Russian Revolution in 'Doctor Zhivago' acts not only as a historical backdrop but also as a catalyst for the characters' development, offering a poignant exploration of how larger societal changes can alter the course of individual lives.

How does the author, Boris Pasternak, use poetry to enhance the story?

In 'Doctor Zhivago,' Boris Pasternak uses poetry to deepen the emotional and philosophical layers of the narrative. The protagonist, Yuri Zhivago, is a poet, and his reflections and verses are interwoven throughout the prose, allowing the reader to experience his inner thoughts and feelings more profoundly. The poetry serves as a medium for exploring themes such as love, loss, and the struggle against the forces of history and oppression. Pasternak's use of imagery and rhythm in the poetry enhances the lyrical quality of the novel, making the environment and emotions more vivid. Additionally, the poems often encapsulate complex ideas and universal truths, adding a lyrical dimension to the story that elevates the prose. This intertwining of poetry and narrative not only develops Yuri's character but also reflects the broader societal upheavals of early 20th-century Russia, making the personal and the political deeply interconnected.

Doctor Zhivago

'Doctor Zhivago' tells the poignant story of Yuri Zhivago, a physician and poet, whose life is profoundly affected by the tumultuous events of the Russian Revolution. Caught between love and duty, Yuri's heart is torn between the idealistic Lara Antipova and his wife, Tonya, against a backdrop of political chaos. As the war and revolution redefine society, Yuri grapples with his artistic aspirations and the impact of social change on personal relationships. This sweeping narrative blends romance, tragedy, and philosophical reflections on the nature of love, loss, and the human spirit. Pasternak's masterpiece invites readers to explore the intersection of personal fate and historical upheaval in a world where both love and ideology shape destinies.

By Boris Pasternak

Published: 2011

"'Life is not a matter of desire, it is a matter of will, and will is a constant evolution of unbreakable love.'"

Literature Philosophy of Mind

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What Readers Say About This Book

First published in Italy in 1957 amid international controversy, Doctor Zhivago is the story of the life and loves of a poet/physician during the turmoil of the Russian Revolution. Taking his family from Moscow to what he hopes will be shelter in the Ural Mountains, Zhivago finds himself instead embroiled in the battle between the Whites and the Reds. Set against this backdrop of cruelty and strife is Zhivago's love for the tender and beautiful Lara, the very embodiment of the pain and chaos of those cataclysmic times. Pevear and Volokhonsky masterfully restore the spirit of Pasternak's original—his style, rhythms, voicings, and tone—in this beautiful translation of a classic of world literature.

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Key Points from Doctor Zhivago

In "Doctor Zhivago," the plot development is intricately woven around the life of Yuri Zhivago, whose journey reflects the personal and societal turbulence during the Russian Revolution. Beginning with his childhood, the narrative depicts Yuri's initial innocence and joy, which starkly contrasts with the ensuing chaos of war. For instance, his early memories of the gentle beauty of nature set a tone of nostalgia, highlighting the loss that follows. The profound love affair between Yuri and Lara Antipova becomes a central plot element, illustrating how personal relationships can be deeply affected by external circumstances. Their love is emblematic of a fleeting beauty in a world marred by violence and upheaval. Additionally, Yuri's struggles with family loyalty, particularly illustrated through his complex relationships with his wife Tonya and his children, underscore the emotional toll of revolutionary changes. The disillusionment he faces reflects broader themes of alienation and despair that permeate post-revolutionary Russian society. The shifting political landscape not only serves as a backdrop but acts as a catalyst for Yuri's internal conflicts, intensifying the story's emotional depth. This profound connection between personal experiences and historical events makes the narrative a poignant exploration of love and loss amidst societal transformation.

About the Author

Boris Pasternak

Boris Pasternak (1890-1960) was a Russian poet, novelist, and literary translator, best known for his renowned novel "Doctor Zhivago" which explores themes of love, war, and the human experience during the Russian Revolution. His literary career was marked by a unique blend of lyrical poetic style and philosophical depth, reflecting both the turmoil of his time and the richness of Russian culture. Alongside "Doctor Zhivago," Pasternak's notable works include his collections of poetry such as "My Sister, Life" and "The Land of Anguish." Despite facing considerable political and personal challenges, including a rejection of the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1958, Pasternak remains a towering figure in 20th-century literature.

Book Details

Key information about the book.

Authors: Boris Pasternak
Published: October 2011
Publisher: Vintage
ISBN: 0307390950
Language: English
Pages: 706
Genres: Philosophy of MindLiterature

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“'Life is not a matter of desire, it is a matter of will, and will is a constant evolution of unbreakable love.'”

Doctor Zhivago

By Boris Pasternak

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Key Points from Doctor Zhivago

In "Doctor Zhivago," the plot development is intricately woven around the life of Yuri Zhivago, whose journey reflects the personal and societal turbulence during the Russian Revolution. Beginning with his childhood, the narrative depicts Yuri's initial innocence and joy, which starkly contrasts with the ensuing chaos of war. For instance, his early memories of the gentle beauty of nature set a tone of nostalgia, highlighting the loss that follows. The profound love affair between Yuri and Lara Antipova becomes a central plot element, illustrating how personal relationships can be deeply affected by external circumstances. Their love is emblematic of a fleeting beauty in a world marred by violence and upheaval. Additionally, Yuri's struggles with family loyalty, particularly illustrated through his complex relationships with his wife Tonya and his children, underscore the emotional toll of revolutionary changes. The disillusionment he faces reflects broader themes of alienation and despair that permeate post-revolutionary Russian society. The shifting political landscape not only serves as a backdrop but acts as a catalyst for Yuri's internal conflicts, intensifying the story's emotional depth. This profound connection between personal experiences and historical events makes the narrative a poignant exploration of love and loss amidst societal transformation.

Doctor Zhivago

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What Readers Say About This Book

The Mike & Casey Show

Key Points from Doctor Zhivago

About the Author

Boris Pasternak

Book Details

Purchase Options

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The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks

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