THE IDEAL RUSSIAN WOMAN FROM THE PEN OF A.S. PUSHKIN: TATYANA

Abstract

The ideal image of a woman varies for each society and is reflected in literature in different forms. A. S. Pushkin, one of the greatest poets of 19th-century Russian literature, embarked on a quest to create the ideal woman in his works. In the poetic novel "Eugene Onegin," he presented the character Tatyana due to his search. The main objective of this study is to analyze in detail the portrait of the idealized Russian woman through the character of Tatyana. In light of the perceptions of women during the time the work was written, as determined by societal consensus, Pushkin portrayed Tatyana as an ideal Russian woman with virtues such as strength of character, loyalty, self-sacrifice, sincerity, and innocence. This study provides a cultural and historical context for understanding Tatyana as an idealized figure. The depiction of Tatyana's relationships with other characters in both her rural life and later in high society, as well as the influence of her nanny on Tatyana, is crucial in identifying the aspects of her character that the poet elevates. Additionally, comparing Tatyana, the idealized female hero, with Olga, another female character close to the ideal, will provide a meaningful perspective. The study will also examine Tatyana's character development throughout the work, her attitude toward societal expectations, and her struggle to find her identity.