(338 words) Roman “Fathers and Sons” I.S. Turgenev is a socio-psychological novel of the second half of the 19th century. It represents the interests of two classes: the obsolete nobility and the new intelligentsia, whose time has not yet come. The most prominent representatives of the two eras in the novel are the young nihilist scientist Evgeny Bazarov and the former officer of the Guards regiment Pavel Petrovich. If the image of the first is devoted to many works, then the character of the hero from the generation of fathers is not always paid much attention. That is why I dedicate my work to the disclosure of this character.
Pavel Petrovich Kirsanov is a representative of the “fathers” generation, a brother of Nikolai Petrovich and uncle Arkady. He is the main antagonist of Evgeny Bazarov, the defender of the interests of the nobility. He "arranged for the English taste." The hero is distinguished by pride and mockery, he tries to avoid communication with people. "Looks" about his views and his appearance: he is always dressed with aristocratic sophistication, his well-groomed nails are most striking. The existence of a man rests on the postulates of the liberal nobility. “Principles” for Kirsanov Sr. - this is the basis of life (in contrast to the lack of “principles” in Bazarov). In verbal fights with a nephew's friend, he looks unconvincing: always the first calls the enemy to talk, his calmness and stiffness are replaced by irritation and lack of understanding of life without ideals. He declares freedom and equality, but only in words, in fact, the hero denies progress and always loses to Bazarov in the dispute.
However, the image of Pavel Petrovich is not so simple. He was a dandy and a favorite of women until he met Princess R. He left his brilliant career and laid down his life in love for this woman. After her death, he was devastated and began to live with his brother. Being a kind and sensitive person, he did his utmost to help Nikolai Petrovich and often borrowed money. Pavel Petrovich has feelings for Fenechka, reminding him of her lover. He rushes to defend the honor of his brother and his chosen one, challenging Bazarov to a duel after an episode with a kiss. He defends his views to the last, quietly surviving his century. In all these actions we see the nobility, passion and strength of character of a proud and courageous person. In the final of the novel we learn that Pavel Petrovich went to live in Dresden, thereby marking the departure of a generation of fathers in the past.
Thus, the image of Pavel Petrovich can rightfully be considered one of the most interesting and significant in the novel “Fathers and Sons” by I. S. Turgenev.
