The Little Demon · Chapter
XVIII explained
Peredonov, caught in the rain, seeks shelter at the home of the notary Goudayevsky, where he complains about the son Antosha's behavior.
What happens
Peredonov, caught in the rain, seeks shelter at the home of the notary Goudayevsky, where he complains about the son Antosha's behavior. The parents argue violently over disciplining the boy, and Peredonov is drawn into the fray. Later, Julia Goudayevskaya sends him a note asking for help punishing Antosha while her husband is away. Peredonov visits her at night, and after a secret encounter, returns home morose and paranoid, suspecting Varvara of bewitching him. He dreams a disturbing dream involving Pilnikov and a cat.
Themes in this chapter
Provinciality and Pettiness
The Goudayevskys' absurd argument over disciplining Antosha and Peredonov's petty complaint highlight the trivial, chaotic nature of provincial life.
Madness and Paranoia
Peredonov's fear of traps, his suspicion of Varvara's bewitchment, and his nightmare reflect his escalating mental instability.
Hypocrisy and Social Facade
Julia Goudayevskaya's pretense of seeking help for her son masks her secret, improper rendezvous with Peredonov.
Characters to notice
- Peredonov
Visits Goudayevsky's home to complain about Antosha, later returns at night in response to Julia's note, then returns home paranoid and haunted by the nedotikomka.
- Goudayevsky
The notary, father of Antosha; argues with his wife over disciplining their son and threatens Peredonov.
- Julia Goudayevskaya
The passionate mother who invites Peredonov to help punish Antosha; her secret nighttime meeting with Peredonov is implied.
- Antosha
The son accused by Peredonov of being mischievous; he defends himself but is caught in his parents' violent argument.
- Varvara
Waits at home for Peredonov; her card-laying and smile fuel his paranoia about bewitchment.
- Sasha Pilnikov
Appears in Peredonov's nightmare, beckoning and leading him through dark streets.
Key passages
“He tried to think where he could shelter for a while, so as not to spoil his new silk umbrella in the rain.”
Peredonov looked for a place to wait out the rain to protect his new silk umbrella.
Shows Peredonov's petty concern for material possessions.
“Nika, Nika, why don't you believe him? ... Would you like to see Antosha turn out a good-for-nothing? He needs a beating.”
Julia Goudayevskaya insists that Antosha must be beaten to avoid becoming a delinquent.
Illustrates the harsh parenting attitudes in the provincial setting.
“He took the cards away and hid them under his pillow. Varvara smiled and said: 'You're making a fool of yourself. I haven't the power to bewitch anyone, and as if I wanted it!'”
Peredonov confiscates Varvara's cards to prevent her from bewitching him, but her smile only increases his fear.
Highlights Peredonov's paranoid belief in supernatural threats.