The Influence of Sir Walter Scott’s writings upon the works of Pushkin and other Russian writers

Summary of the Talk:

The talk explores the profound influence of Sir Walter Scott's writings on Russian literature, especially through the works of Alexander Pushkin and other notable Russian authors. Here's a summary and key points:

The talk begins with an anecdote from the 1960s, where Gunn learned of the widespread admiration for Sir Walter Scott among Russians, even in his early interactions with a Russian diplomat. Scott's influence on Russian literature, particularly in the 19th century, was immense. Key writers such as Pushkin, Lermontov, Dostoyevsky, Turgenev, and Tolstoy were inspired by Scott’s novels. The introduction of Scott’s works to Russia around 1816 marked the beginning of a deep engagement with Scottish literature that lasted for decades.

1. Pushkin’s Admiration: Pushkin, the towering figure in Russian literature, was significantly influenced by Scott. His works such as The Captain's Daughter bear similarities to Scott’s historical novels. Pushkin's novel also mirrors Scott’s use of historical settings and complex characters.
2. Cultural Context: Russian literature underwent a transformation due to the influence of Western ideas, especially after the reign of Peter the Great. The intellectual ferment of Catherine the Great's era nurtured Russian writers who began using the Russian language more effectively for literary expression, influenced by Scott and other Western writers.
3. Scott's Influence on Pushkin's Works: Pushkin’s novels and stories, especially The Captain's Daughter, reflect Scott's structural techniques, such as using a narrator to introduce the story. The novel also parallels Scott's Waverley in the historical context and its treatment of rebellion, loyalty, and personal honor.
4. Russian Reception of Scott: While Scott's popularity was not universal in Russia, it was deeply felt among intellectuals and the aristocracy. Pushkin himself corresponded with friends about Scott's books, and other writers like Nikolai Karamzin read and admired Scott’s novels, particularly for their emotional depth.
5. Scott’s Decline in Popularity: By the mid-19th century, the appeal of Scott began to wane as Russian literature evolved and other writers like Gogol and Dostoyevsky gained prominence. However, Scott's works remained influential among a cultured minority and were still read in intellectual circles.
6. Women’s Appeal to Scott’s Novels: Scott’s heroines were particularly popular among Russian women readers, as they were strong, spirited characters, which resonated with women in a time of limited opportunities. Fashion also played a role in his popularity, as evidenced by the tartan and dress styles inspired by his works.
7. Enduring Legacy: Despite declining popularity, Scott’s influence persisted through the works of authors like Tolstoy and Turgenev. Even during the Soviet era, Scott’s novels were regarded as essential reading, especially for children, as they offered valuable historical and moral lessons.

Interesting Points:

• Pushkin's "The Captain's Daughter": This work is often cited as being influenced by Scott’s historical narratives. The parallels with Waverley and The Heart of Midlothian are notable, especially in the portrayal of personal loyalty, love, and the consequences of political uprisings.
• Fashion Impact: The impact of Scott extended beyond literature into the fashion world, with Russian ladies donning tartan fabrics inspired by Scott’s works. This cultural crossover shows the extent of his influence on Russian society, both intellectually and stylistically.
• Pushkin and Scott’s Narrators: Pushkin borrowed Scott’s technique of using an external narrator (as in Tales of My Landlord) to frame his stories, showing how Russian writers adapted Western literary styles.
• Cultural Debate: The talk references criticism of Scott’s work, particularly the view that his novels romanticized a feudal past. This reflects the shifting tastes in Russian literature and the growing interest in more modern, psychological narratives.

This lecture highlights the enduring relationship between Scottish and Russian literature, illustrating how deeply Scott’s influence shaped the literary landscape of Russia, particularly through figures like Pushkin.