Country Scandal: A Window into the Hidden Truths of Rural Life

In the tapestry of Russian literature, Country Scandal by Andrei Platonov stands as a thought-provoking masterpiece that deftly explores the complexities of rural life in the Soviet Union. Originally published in 1929, this play has captivated readers for generations, unveiling the hidden truths and unspoken secrets that lie beneath the surface of a seemingly ordinary village.

Through the lens of Platonov's incisive prose, we are transported to the village of Kushchevo, where a web of illicit affairs, social tensions, and political machinations entangles the lives of the villagers. The arrival of the young agronomist Safonov stirs up a whirlwind of change, exposing the underlying currents of discontent and desire that have long been simmering beneath the surface.

A Country Scandal (Platonov) (Dover Thrift Editions: Plays)

by Atiha Sen Gupta

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	570 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	129 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Paperback	:	80 pages
Item Weight	:	7 ounces
Dimensions	:	5.3 x 0.4 x 8.3 inches

FREE

A Cast of Intriguing Characters

Platonov's characters are not mere pawns in a narrative; they are complex individuals, each with their own motivations, desires, and flaws. Through their interactions, we gain a profound understanding of the human condition, its strengths, and its vulnerabilities.

• Zakhar Pavlovich: The village elder, Zakhar is a man burdened by responsibility and the weight of tradition. His unwavering belief in collectivization clashes with the growing disillusionment among the villagers.
• Anna: Zakhar's wife, Anna, is a woman torn between her loyalty to her husband and her longing for a more fulfilling life. Her affair with Safonov becomes a symbol of the repressed desires that simmer beneath the surface of village life.
• Safonov: A young agronomist, Safonov represents the hope for change and modernization. However, his idealism clashes with the harsh realities of rural life, leading him to question his own beliefs.
• Sophia: Safonov's wife, Sophia, is a strong and independent woman who challenges traditional gender roles. Her affair with the village schoolteacher reveals the growing desire for liberation among the women of Kushchevo.

Social Satire and Political Commentary

Beneath the seemingly simple plot of Country Scandal lies a sharp and incisive social satire. Platonov uses his characters and their interactions to expose the hypocrisies, injustices, and absurdities of collectivization and the Soviet regime.

The play's title itself is a clever indictment of the gap between the idyllic image of rural life projected by the government and the harsh realities faced by the villagers. The "scandal" is not an isolated incident but a symptom of a deeper malaise that permeates the entire society.

A Literary Masterpiece

Country Scandal is not just a social commentary; it is also a literary masterpiece. Platonov's prose is lyrical and evocative, capturing the beauty and harshness of the Russian countryside.

The play's structure is innovative and experimental, reflecting the fragmented and chaotic nature of life in Kushchevo. Platonov uses a series of short scenes and vignettes to create a kaleidoscopic view of the village, its people, and their struggles.

Despite its challenging subject matter, Country Scandal is ultimately a hopeful play. It is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and its ability to overcome adversity.

Dover Thrift Editions: Making Classics Affordable

Now, Country Scandal is available in the affordable Dover Thrift Editions, making this literary masterpiece accessible to readers of all backgrounds.

The Dover Thrift Editions are a renowned collection of classic works of literature, history, and science. With their sturdy covers, durable paper, and affordable prices, these editions are the perfect way to build your home library and explore the world of great ideas.

Free Download your copy of Country Scandal by Andrei Platonov today and immerse yourself in a world of hidden truths and complex characters. Experience the literary genius of Platonov and discover the timeless themes that continue to resonate today.

Free Download Country Scandal by Andrei Platonov from Dover Publications

A Country Scandal (Platonov) (Dover Thrift Editions: Plays)

by Atiha Sen Gupta

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	570 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	129 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Paperback	:	80 pages
Item Weight	:	7 ounces
Dimensions	:	5.3 x 0.4 x 8.3 inches

FREE