Poor Folk · Chapter
June 22nd: My Dearest Barbara Alexievna explained
Makar writes to Barbara about the death of Gorshkov's nine-year-old son from scarlatina.
What happens
Makar writes to Barbara about the death of Gorshkov's nine-year-old son from scarlatina. He describes the family's dire poverty, the mother's grief, the father's tears, and the thoughtful little daughter standing by the coffin. Makar expresses his deep pity and helplessness at their suffering.
Themes in this chapter
Poverty and Deprivation
The Gorshkov family's extreme poverty is highlighted: they live in a single room with a screen, the father wears a dirty frockcoat, and the children suffer.
Human Dignity and Self-Worth
Makar's visit of condolence and his emotional response underscore the dignity of the grieving family despite their destitution.
Characters to notice
- Makar Alexievitch Dievushkin
Narrates the sad event of Gorshkov's child's death, expressing pity and helplessness.
- Barbara Alexievna Dobroselova
Recipient of Makar's letter describing the tragedy.
- Gorshkov
Father of the deceased child, seen in dire poverty, weeping and thin.
Key passages
“I have been to pay the parents a visit of condolence, and found them living in the direst poverty and disorder.”
Makar visited the grieving parents and saw their extreme poverty and chaotic living conditions.
Illustrates the theme of poverty and deprivation.
“Though not weeping, the mother, poor woman, looked broken with grief.”
The mother was not crying but appeared shattered by sorrow.
Highlights the emotional impact of the child's death.
“How painful to see these suffering children, and to be unable to help them!”
It is heartbreaking to witness the children's suffering without being able to assist.
Reflects Makar's empathy and helplessness.