The Created Legend · Chapter
XXXII explained
The chapter describes a tense examination at Trirodov's school, where the Vice-Governor Doulebov and other officials conduct a hostile inspection.
What happens
The chapter describes a tense examination at Trirodov's school, where the Vice-Governor Doulebov and other officials conduct a hostile inspection. The examiners criticize the children's answers, mock the school's methods, and accuse Trirodov of running a 'pornography.' After a heated private conversation, Doulebov threatens to close the school, and the visitors leave in anger.
Themes in this chapter
Class Conflict and Culture
The inspection pits the rigid, state-approved educational culture of Doulebov against Trirodov's freer, more natural approach, highlighting class and ideological divides.
Duality of Human Nature
Doulebov's violent outbursts and accusations contrast with Trirodov's calm demeanor, revealing the dual nature of authority and resistance.
Characters to notice
- Trirodov
Hosts the examination at his school, defends his educational methods, and calmly confronts Doulebov's accusations.
- Doulebov
Leads the inspection, berates the children, and accuses Trirodov's school of pornography, threatening to close it.
- Shabalov
Assists in the examination, mocks the students' answers, and supports Doulebov's criticisms.
- Zinaida
Doulebova, present at the examination, exchanges glances with Kerbakh and expresses horror at the proceedings.
- Kerbakh
Observes the examination and later remarks that Trirodov is 'clearly a dangerous man.'
- Nadezhda Vestchezerova
Trirodov asks her to close the windows at Doulebova's request.
Key passages
“The windows of the house in the small glade were wide open. The twitter of birds was audible and the fresh, delicious aroma of flowers entered in.”
The house in the clearing had its windows open, letting in birdsong and the sweet scent of flowers.
Sets the natural, open atmosphere of Trirodov's school.
“Doulebov thrust a finger forward towards a dark-eyed boy’s breast and shouted: “Read, boy!””
Doulebov pointed aggressively at a dark-eyed boy and ordered him to read.
Illustrates Doulebov's harsh and intimidating examination style.
“Trirodov looked at her in astonishment. He said quietly to Nadezhda: “Close the windows. Our guests can’t stand fresh air.””
Trirodov, surprised by Doulebova's request, calmly asked Nadezhda to shut the windows, remarking that the guests disliked fresh air.
Shows Trirodov's ironic compliance and the guests' discomfort with nature.
““I have heard improper things about your school, but, indeed, the reality exceeds all expectations.””
Doulebov claimed that the reality of the school was worse than the rumors he had heard.
Doulebov's accusation escalates the conflict.
““This is not a school but a pornography!””
Doulebov declared that the school was obscene.
Central accusation leading to the confrontation.
“Trirodov replied calmly: “That’s a lie!””
Trirodov flatly denied Doulebov's claim.
Trirodov's direct rebuttal of the accusation.
