In 'MOSCOW' by Frederick Whishaw, readers are taken on a journey through the streets of 19th century Moscow, exploring the lives of the Russian elite and the working class in a time of great political and social turbulence. Whishaw's detailed descriptions and vivid characters immerse the reader in the harsh realities of a society on the brink of change, while his lyrical prose captures the beauty and complexity of the city. The novel's exploration of power dynamics, social hierarchy, and individual struggle reflect the tumultuous historical backdrop against which the story unfolds. As a seasoned traveler and scholar of Russian history, Frederick Whishaw brings a unique perspective and deep understanding of the cultural nuances depicted in 'MOSCOW'. His background in literature and history allows him to seamlessly weave together a compelling narrative that offers insight into the human experience in a specific time and place. I highly recommend 'MOSCOW' to readers interested in historical fiction, Russian literature, or social commentary. Whishaw's masterful storytelling and rich character development make this novel a captivating and thought-provoking read that will linger in the reader's mind long after the final page.
Zusammenfassung
This novel tells us about one of the essential Napoleonic campaigns through the lives of several Russian families, which changed drastically because of the war. From the very first pages, the novel captivates by a highly realistic description of the epoch. It opens with a marriage ceremony in the family of nobility. The marriage is set between a boy of ten and a girl of seven, and the marriage party is accompanied by heavy drinking of fathers and the priest, filthy jokes, and the descriptions of the dirty plates on the tables. As the events evolve, the story gives the same realistic account of the French invasion in Moscow: "During these first few days of the French occupation Moscow became a very pandemonium of pillage and violence, of smoke and fire, of orgies and of cruelties too horrible to relate." Being cast into such circumstances, the protagonists show incomparable courage and strength, inspiring more profound interest in the period's history.