Poor Folk · Chapter
August 4th: My Beloved Makar Alexievitch explained
Barbara writes to Makar in desperation, recounting a visit from an elderly, decorated man who, under the guise of protection, made inappropriate advances and attempted to bribe her with money and promises of gifts.
What happens
Barbara writes to Makar in desperation, recounting a visit from an elderly, decorated man who, under the guise of protection, made inappropriate advances and attempted to bribe her with money and promises of gifts. She realizes this is orchestrated by Anna Thedorovna and begs Makar to borrow twenty-five roubles so she and Thedora can move to escape the harassment.
Themes in this chapter
Exploitation and Predation
The old man's visit, with his forced familiarity, attempted bribery, and connection to Anna Thedorovna, exemplifies the predatory exploitation of vulnerable women.
Poverty and Deprivation
Barbara's urgent need to borrow twenty-five roubles to escape her situation highlights the crushing poverty that limits her choices and forces dependence on others.
Isolation and Loneliness
Barbara's plea to Makar as her sole hope underscores her isolation, with no other protector or resource to turn to in her distress.
Characters to notice
- Barbara Alexievna Dobroselova
Writes in distress, recounting the old man's visit and pleading for Makar's help to borrow money for a move.
- Makar Alexievitch Dievushkin
The recipient of Barbara's desperate letter, whom she implores to borrow money on her behalf.
- Thedora
Barbara's companion who helps turn the old man out and advises moving; she will help Barbara find work to repay the loan.
- Anna Thedorovna
Implied orchestrator of the old man's visit, as he mentioned knowing her and she plans to visit Barbara.
- The Naval Officer
Referenced as the nephew of the visiting old man; his slandering of Barbara is part of the context for the visit.
Key passages
“For God's sake borrow some money as soon as you can. I would not ask this help of you were it not for the situation in which I am placed.”
Barbara urgently begs Makar to obtain a loan, explaining that only dire circumstances force her to make this request.
Highlights Barbara's desperation and her reluctance to burden Makar, yet her lack of alternatives.
“Neither of us doubt that this is Anna Thedorovna's work—for how otherwise could the old man have got to know about us?”
Barbara and Thedora are certain that Anna Thedorovna is behind the old man's visit, as she is the only link to their situation.
Reveals Barbara's awareness of Anna Thedorovna's manipulative role and the ongoing threat she poses.
“I will make over to you all that I possess if only you will continue to help me.”
Barbara promises to give Makar everything she owns in return for his continued assistance.
Demonstrates Barbara's profound gratitude and her willingness to sacrifice everything for Makar's support.