Eugene Onegin · Chapter
XLVII explained
Onegin witnesses the funeral of his uncle and becomes the full owner of the rural estate, including its serfs, mines, meadows, woods, and lakes.
What happens
Onegin witnesses the funeral of his uncle and becomes the full owner of the rural estate, including its serfs, mines, meadows, woods, and lakes. Despite his previous disdain for economy, he takes temporary delight in the change of circumstances.
Themes in this chapter
Rural vs. Urban Life
Onegin, who previously abhorred economy and rural management, now takes possession of the estate, highlighting the contrast between his urban sensibilities and the demands of country life.
Characters to notice
- Eugene Onegin
Onegin observes the funeral of his uncle and inherits the estate, becoming a rural lord.
Key passages
“The courtyard full of serfs he sees, And from the country all around Had come both friends and enemies— Funeral amateurs abound!”
Onegin sees the courtyard crowded with serfs and people from the countryside, including both friends and foes, who have come as funeral enthusiasts.
Describes the gathering at the funeral.
“Lo! my Onegin rural lord! Of mines and meadows, woods and lakes, He now a full possession takes, He who economy abhorred, Delighted much his former ways To vary for a few brief days.”
Behold! My Onegin becomes a rural lord, taking full possession of mines, meadows, woods, and lakes—he who once hated managing property now enjoys a temporary change from his old habits.
Highlights Onegin's inheritance and his fleeting pleasure in the novelty of rural ownership.