What is the theme of the play: dowry. Analysis of the play “Dowry” (A.N.

Administration of the city of Solikamsk, Perm region

DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

Municipal budgetary educational institution

"Evening (shift) secondary school No. 3"

618556, Solikamsk, Perm region, st. Frunze, 114. tel/fax 4-34-35

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Literature lessons

for 10th grade

on the topic: “Analysis of the text of the drama by A.N. Ostrovsky "Dowry"

Performed:

Mankova Lyudmila Nikolaevna

teacher of MBOU "VSSH No. 3" Solikamsk

Subject: Analysis of the text of the drama A.N. Ostrovsky "Dowry" (2-3 lessons on this topic).

Objective of the lessons: learn to work with text.

Tasks:

Test your knowledge of the text.

Analyze the images of the characters from the text by reading excerpts from the play.

Summarize the material studied to prepare for the essay.

Lesson plan:

Organizing time.

Analytical conversation (checking your knowledge of the text).

Discussion of the image of Ogudalova.

Characteristics of Paratov.

Discussion of the images of merchants Knurov and Vozhevatov.

6. Analysis of Karandashev’s image.

Summing up and drawing up a supporting summary.

Homework instruction.

During the classes:

Org moment.

Analytical conversation

What do you learn from the first two events of the play? What is their role in developing the plot of the play?

Student. At first glance, the first two phenomena of the play are an exposition containing purely informational material. But it is very important to notice several details that are the basis for the further development of the dramatic action of the play. The dialogue between Knurov and Vozhevatov mentions such events as Larisa’s imminent marriage, an invitation to dinner with Karandyshev - these news are the main ones for the heroes.

What is the role of the scene of Larisa’s explanation with Karandyshev?

Student. From it we learn that Larisa still has not forgotten Paratov.

What do we know about Paratov?

Exercise.

How does Paratov behave when he learns about Larisa’s imminent wedding?

Student. His pride is hurt, but he doesn’t show it; he mockingly recalls how he courted her and almost got married. But his pride is hurt so much that he even forgets to ask who will become Larisa’s husband, he has only one thought - he was preferred to another!

What do you think is the role of this scene?

Student. This scene is the beginning of the conflict. Paratov decides to take revenge for the betrayal and show his superiority.

How do the events of the second act develop? Which ones do you consider the most important?

Student. The events of the second act are the development of the conflict, the approach of the climax. The most important are the scene of the meeting between Larisa and Paratov, the quarrel with Karandyshev. (students read these scenes by role).

How did lunch at Karandyshev’s turn out for its participants?

Student. Paratov, Knurov and Vozhevatov showed Larisa what a stupid thing she had done by agreeing to marry Karandyshev, they humiliated him in the eyes of the bride and made him a laughing stock.

What is the climax of the play?

Student. Larisa recklessly follows Paratov, she believes in his sincere desire to free her from such a wretched future. But Karandyshev is not going to remain idle; he decides to take revenge!

Exercise.

Retell the events of the fourth act

What decision does Larisa make and why?

Student. Larisa could not commit suicide, but she also cannot return to Karandyshev, therefore, in despair, she decides to accept Knurov’s offer to go abroad with him, i.e. become a "thing".

Student. The murder of Larisa is shown as a blessing, as saving her from shame, as liberation from a humiliating life as a kept woman.

III. Discussion of the image of H.I. Ogudalova

What do we learn about the moral character and life principles of H.I. Ogudalova?

Student. Ogudalova's moral character is determined by her social position. Kharita Ignatievna is a hanger-on with noble gentlemen. Perhaps in her youth she led a luxurious life at the expense of her fans, but now she is trading on the beauty and talent of her daughter. In order to maintain her former lifestyle and ensure her old age, Ogudalova is ready to humiliate herself. She objects to Larisa: “We are poor people, we have to humiliate ourselves all our lives.”

How does she feel about Vozhevatov, Knurov, Paratov and Karandyshev? How does her speech change when talking to different people? Read and comment on short excerpts from Ogudalova’s conversations with Knurov and Paratov.

Student. She has her own approach to each of Larisa’s fans. She treats Knurov prudently: “... Mokiy Parmenych, I’m very grateful that I was honored...”. She agrees with him in everything and obsequiously repeats his words.

Ogudalova has a casual, friendly conversation with Paratov: “Oh, Sergei Sergeich! Oh, my dear! “What kind of wind blew it?” “Oh, you prankster. The remark to the last remark is typical: “He takes Paratov by the ear.” Kharita Ignatievna speaks dismissively and ironically to Karandyshev. After all, he is a poor groom. There is nothing to profit from him.

How does Kharita Ignatievna relate to Larisa and what role does she play in her fate? What goal does Ogudalova pursue when talking with Larisa on January 3? D. II about life in the village, about Karandyshev?

Student. The attitude towards his daughter is clearly revealed in a conversation with Knurov. Knurov hints that he is ready to take Larisa into custody: “The warm sympathy of a strong, rich man...”. Ogudalova does not seem to understand the hint and at the same time encourages Knurov: “Okay, how will this participation be found.” The trade took place. Larisa receives a wardrobe as a deposit, and Ogudalova receives 300 rubles. This is the money she sells her daughter for. After a conversation with Knurov, Ogudalova gradually prepares Larisa to break up with

Karandyshev, to life in the pay of Knurov. He talks about Karandyshev’s insignificance, about the unattractive aspects of life in the village.

For what purpose does Ostrovsky introduce the romances “Do not tempt me unnecessarily...” and “Mother Dove...” into the text of D. II?

Student. Larisa's feelings are expressed in the romances that she sings. Larisa asks to have pity on her and not subject her to new tests. But at the dinner party, Kharita Ignatievna again paints Karandyshev in the most unfavorable light for him; and when Larisa decides to go beyond the Volga for a picnic, Kharita Ignatievna does not hold her.

Characteristics of Paratov

Who is Paratov? How do other characters Knurov, Vozhevatov, Karandyshev characterize him? Why did Larisa fall in love with Paratov? What is the difference between Paratov and the people who surround her and what are the similarities?

Student. The essence of Paratov’s personality is defined in the list of characters as a “brilliant gentleman.” But this is not the brilliance of intelligence, character or culture, it is external, ostentatious brilliance. Characteristics of Paratov are given from different points of view. “Paratov lives in style,” Knurov says about him condemningly. “What else, but chic is enough,” Vozhevatov agrees with him. Before Paratov's arrival, there was a commotion in the city. He is greeted with a salute - a shot from a cannon. The gypsies, servants, coachmen - everyone is glad of his arrival: the master pays generously. When he appears, Ivan “runs out of the coffee shop with a whisk and rushes to sweep Paratov.” And signs of servility are pleasant to him.

What are Paratov's moral principles? How do they reveal themselves in their relationship with Larisa? Comment on the dialogues between Paratov and Larisa in the phenomenon. 8, D. II, in yavl. 12, D. III and in yavl. 7, D. IV.

Student. A person is judged by his actions. In episodes during a trip along the Volga and with a bet, he reveals himself as a gambler. The stake is your life and the life of your beloved girl. And all this for the thrill. There is daring and daring in his actions, but one cannot but agree with Karandyshev’s words: “He has no heart, that’s why he is so brave.” And Paratov himself says about himself: “I don’t know what “sorry” is. I, Mokiy Parmenych, have nothing cherished; If I find a profit, I’ll sell everything, anything.”

What is the relationship between the sale of “Swallow” and the fate of Larisa? What is Paratov’s philosophy of life?

Student. Just as easily he parted with “Swallow,” he just as easily left Larisa. “Swallow” - seagull (translation of Larisa’s name). Paratov’s philosophy of life is revealed in his words: “Yes, gentlemen, life is short, philosophers say, so you need to be able to use it.” The main thing for him is money. For their sake, he sacrifices love, is ready to sell his freedom. In conversations with Larisa we see his posturing, heartlessness, and spiritual callousness.

What are the similarities and differences between Paratov and Pechorin?

Student. He, like Pechorin, is an egoist who brings suffering to his loving wife. But Pechorin is a deeper nature. This is a person who is not satisfied with the petty life of society, who cannot find work within his strength. Paratov is a narcissistic egoist. He is more reminiscent of Grushnitsky. Money, position in society - what Pechorin calmly passed by - make up Paratov’s life.

Discussion of the images of merchants Knurov and Vozhevatov

Comparing merchants of the old and new formations, G.I. Uspensky, in his essay “The Book of Checks,” wrote: “The old-fashioned merchant... lived by deception, wealth came to him in dark ways... The merchant was the cash cow of everyone who represented any kind of power... the old guy considered his business in the depths souls “not quite like a god,” but the new one, on the contrary, has no doubt at all that his business is real and that the fatherland even owes him gratitude for the fact that he sacrifices his capital for the common good, and although he acts “out of personal benefits, but gives bread to others...”

How do Knurov and Vozhevatov differ from the merchants depicted in the drama “The Thunderstorm”? What imprint does social position leave on the characters, psychology, and behavior of merchants?

Student. Knurov and Vozhevatov belong to a new type of merchants. Unlike the Wild, they received a decent education. Knurov is reading a French newspaper and is getting ready to go to an exhibition in Paris. From the conversation between Gavrila and Ivan, we learn that Knurov is closed and taciturn. He has no equal in position in the city. Even with Vozhevatov he behaves patronizingly and condescendingly. Tyrant merchants are characterized by complete disregard for public opinion. Now merchants are forced to take into account what they will say about them. They develop special tactics based on deceiving public opinion. This is Vozhevatov’s idea to drink champagne from teapots, “so that people don’t say anything bad about him.”

What are the relationships between merchants?

Student. Based on the dialogue between Knurov and Vozhevatov, we judge the relationship between the merchants. They are united in relation to the people dependent on them, but behind the external complacency one feels wariness and distrust of each other. When Knurov asks Vozhevatov about his business affairs, Vozhevatov gives evasive answers.

How does Knurov’s attitude towards Larisa characterize? What is the true reason behind his attitude?

Student. In his relationship with Larisa, Knurov’s cynicism is hidden behind a mask of respect and ostentatious goodwill: he kept thinking about Larisa Dmitrievna,” he turns to Vozhevatov before casting lots. “It seems to me that she is now in such a position that we, close people, are not only not allowed, but we are even obliged to take part in her fate. In reality, they decide to take advantage of Larisa’s desperate situation. Knurov has no doubt that Larisa will accept his offer to go to him for support, since she knows the extent of her power over people. He tells her: “For me, the impossible is not enough. Don’t be afraid of shame, there will be no condemnation...”

What is Vozhevatov’s attitude towards Larisa?

Student. Vozhevatov, like Knurov, is a calculating egoist. He talks about Larisa's fate with a laugh. It is a great pleasure for Vozhevatov to visit the Ogudalovs’ house, joke with Larisa, and listen to her sing. But he will never lose his head, he subordinates his feelings to sober calculation: “No, somehow I, Moky Parmenych, don’t notice this in myself at all... what is called love,” he says to Knurov. And he approves of him: “Commendable, you will be a good merchant.”

When is Vozhevatov’s callous attitude towards Larisa most clearly manifested? How does this characterize him as a merchant? What was the basis of life for merchants of that time?

Student. Vozhevatov’s cold prudence and callousness are especially clearly revealed in Act V. “Vasya, I’m dying! - Larisa turns to Vozhevatov in despair, we have known each other since childhood... what should I do - teach me!” But he refused to help her. Because, firstly, in this society, everyone is for himself, and after Vozhevatov realized that Larisa could not be his mistress, his toy, he lost interest in her; secondly, the point is a peculiarly understood merchant honor. Vozhevatov gave Knurov his word and cannot break it, even if a person died before his eyes. My word of honor is a merchant's mark.

Analysis of Karandyshev's image

Who is Karandyshev?

Student. Karandyshev grew up in a bourgeois environment, experiencing humiliation from childhood from the powers that be. He condemns their morals and behavior, but at the same time envies them and claims to be the master of life; he is very ambitious. A minor official, Karandyshev tries to prove to everyone that he is no worse than others. He constantly teaches and reads instructions.

How does he behave with Vozhevatov, Knurov, Paratov and others?

Student. We can judge his attitude towards other heroes by his speech. He is friends with Vozhevatov: “Vasily Danilych, that’s it: come and dine with me today!” It sounds casual and familiar. He respectfully talks to Knurov: “Mokiy Parmenych, would you like to dine with me today?” Karandyshev is arrogant with servants. And in this change in the shades of the hero’s speech, his servile, bureaucratic nature is revealed. Everyone mocks him: both merchants and servants. Knurov ignores Karandyshev, shielding himself from him with a newspaper.

How is the relationship between Karandyshev and Larisa? (D. I, appearance 4; D. II, appearance 6; D. III, appearance 11,13,14; D. IV, appearance 10-11).

Student. Challenging Paratov's inconstancy, Larisa is ready to marry Karandyshev. Let's see how Larisa's attitude towards Karandyshev changes (an excerpt is read from the words “You yourself mean something, but from comparison with Sergei Sergeevich you lose everything...” to “I’m too dear to you.”)

Of course, Larisa did not like Karandyshev. She decides to marry him, trying to find something good in him. Betrothal to him is an attempt to escape from home, a desire to forget Paratov, a search for a quiet corner where she can become a free seagull. But Karandyshev failed to understand her. For him, marriage with Larisa is an opportunity to enter the society of the elite, those whom he hates, but whom he blindly imitates.

What is the complexity of Karandyshev’s image? How does it make you feel?

Student. But Karandyshev causes us not only laughter and condemnation. We understand that behind his self-confidence lies an inner timidity. His attempts to stand in line with the merchants are absurd, but we watch with bitterness the brazen mockery of him by the masters of life. Larisa's flight with the merchants is a terrible disaster for him. He feels confusion, bitterness, a sense of insulted human dignity, and impotent anger. He decides to take revenge on his offenders.

Summing up the discussions

Let's summarize our lessons and draw up a supporting summary. Compilation

We will begin the supporting summary by indicating the dates of writing of the plays “The Thunderstorm” and “Dowry”: 1859 and 1878, placing the names of dramatic works and dates on opposite sides of the upper part of the summary.

Let's ask students a question:

What can be seen in common in these two works of the playwright?

We will record the answer to this question in a brief form in the outline, placing this entry in the line between the titles of the works.

1) Volga; Kalinov and Bryakhimov are small towns;

2) the cruelty of morals reigning in these cities is combined with a thirst for profit;

3) in both cities an extraordinary personality lives and suffers, not accepting lies, striving for freedom, beauty and love;

4) the play ends with the tragic death of the heroine, who is the center of the drama.

So, at the center of his narrative, Ostrovsky, as in the drama “The Thunderstorm,” puts the heroine, Larisa Ogudalova. According to N. Skatov, “the names of Ostrovsky’s plays are, as a rule, symbolic. “Dowry” sounds like a terrible symbol. The best of the best is the dowryless one.” (Mark the center of the notes and write down: “Larisa Ogudalova.”)

Prove the accuracy of the description given by Nikolai Skatov to Larisa Ogudapova - “the best of the best.”

Student. Vozhevatov, talking over morning “tea” with Knurov, says about Larisa: “The young lady is pretty, plays different instruments, sings, has a free manner.” Knurov happily supports: “It’s nice to see her alone more often, without interference... this woman is made for luxury.” Vasily Danilych, who has known Larisa since childhood, notes the most important thing that distinguishes her from her mother, Kharita Ignatievna Ogudalova: “That mother is all cunning and flattery, but this one suddenly, out of the blue, says that it’s not necessary.” Knurov clarifies: “That is, the truth?”

As students perform, a note is made in the notes (under the name of the heroine):

Larisa Ogudalova: a richly gifted person; endowed with a bright, unique character; distinguished by sensitivity, impressionability; she is characterized by gullibility, sincerity, straightforwardness; love lives in the heroine’s heart; the heroine's soul is like a bird, etc.

The stage history of the play “The Dowry” indicates that the success of the drama directly depended on the understanding of the author’s intention by the actress who played the role of Larisa. In 1896, Larisa was played on the stage of the Alexandria Theater by Vera Fedorov on Komissarzhevskaya.

Larisa, performed by V.F. Komissarzhevskaya, appeared as a heroine, detached from the trifles of everyday life, standing above everyday vulgarity, endowed with amazing spiritual purity, striving to break out of the circle of indifference and cruelty.

The word “circle” is key in compiling the next part of the outline. We set the task of defining the circle of indifference and cruelty.

Name the characters in the play surrounding Larisa. Name the nature of the heroine’s attitude towards this person.

Student. Kharita Ignatievna Ogudalova. The relationship of an obedient, understanding daughter.

Yuliy Kapitonich Karandyshev. The heroine hopes that Karandyshev will take her away from here, save her from a vulgar, low life.

Vasily Danilych Vozhevatov. Larisa has known this young man since childhood and believes that they have friendly relations.

Mokiy Parmenych Knurov. He sees in this respectable person loyalty and support from his elder.

Sergei Sergeich Paratov. Larisa loves him.

What do these characters have in common? What is the difference?

The first reaction of students is surprise: what do completely different heroes have in common?

But in Ostrovsky’s text we read how Karandyshev is surprised: “Well, why am I worse than Paratov?” Does Larisa notice this question?

Student. “...the comparison will not be in your favor.” Karandyshev demands proof. Let us also turn to the assessments given to Paratov and Karandyshev by those who know them, have seen them and met them in various situations. According to Larisa, Paratov is the “ideal man” because he has some kind of special courage. What she witnessed remained in the heart and memory of the heroine: “I myself saw how he helped the poor, how he gave away all the money that was with him.”

Opinion of Kharita Ignatievna Ogudalova, we note the differences in the summary: Paratov is a brilliant gentleman, charming, good-looking; everyone knows; Larisa loves him. Karandyshev - a minor official; insignificant, humiliated by everyone; unknown to anyone; Larisa doesn't love him. That, perhaps, is all that distinguishes these heroes. Is Karandyshev a victim? Yes. Unhappy person?

Let us turn to the interpretation of the names of these characters in “Dowry”. The playwright most likely formed Paratov’s surname from the dialect word poraty, which means “brisk, strong, stalwart.” This explanation is given in Dahl's dictionary. In some reference books there is such an explanation of the surname? paraty is a dexterous, predatory animal. But the surname Yulia Kapitonich Karandyshev is derived from karandysh, karandishka, that is (according to Dahl) “short, runt, short person.”

Give examples of statements by Paratov and Karandyshev that could be called key, that is, characterizing their life positions. (We will record the statements in notes.)

Student. Paratov: “I don’t know what “sorry” is. I... don’t have anything treasured, I’ll find a profit, so I’ll sell everything, whatever.”

Karandyshev: “I suffered many, many injections for my pride, my pride was insulted more than once; Now I want and have the right to be proud and magnified.” “Well, why am I worse than Paratov?”

Both heroes get married. What does marriage mean to each of them?

Student. Both heroes get married in order to improve their situation: neither Paratov has anything (he simply squandered everything), nor Karandyshev.

How can one explain this situation for Paratov and Karandyshev?

Student. Paratov and Karandyshev lack business acumen, the ability to think and act sensibly, to curb their emotions, and to subdue their desires. In a small provincial town, where everyone knows each other, the business qualities of the smallest official are thoroughly known, but there is not a word about the ability to conduct any business by the Karandyshevs or Paratovs.

How do Paratov and Karandyshev feel about Larisa?

Student. Sergei Sergeich opens up with his friends. And it is no coincidence that the playwright constructs the scene of explanation in this way: Paratov makes a terrible confession for the heroine not alone with Larisa, but when Knurov and Vozhevatov appear from the coffee shop: the “brilliant gentleman” leaves his victim to be torn to pieces by other predators.

Yuliy Kapitonich Karandyshev represents the type of “little man” in the drama “Dowry”. At the same time, Karandyshev strives with all his might to join the world of the powerful, dreams of a beautiful, luxurious life for show, so that others will envy him. He has destroyed everything human in himself and with a fatal shot puts an end to it: this woman must belong to him! Otherwise - “don’t get it from anyone!” The cruel morals reigning in the city of Bryakhimov completely corrupted the petty official.

An entry appeared in the notes reflecting what Paratov and Karandyshev have in common: they get married in order to improve their financial situation; lack business acumen and the ability to think and act sensibly, to curb their emotions; completely inhumane towards Larisa; advantages turn out to be imaginary, etc.

The next stage of compiling a summary is an analysis of issues related to the images of Vozhevatov and Knurov.

The surname of Mokiy Parmenych Knurov is derived from the word knur - “hog, laid boar, boar” (according to Dahl).

The surname Vozhevatov comes from the leader, leader, that is (again according to Dahl) this is the one “who knows how to get along with people, a courteous, polite, friendly, entertaining interlocutor”, in combination the leader of the people is cheeky, shameless.

Let's remember the characteristics of the images of Knurov and Vozhevaty?

When characterizing the images of Knurov and Vozhevatov, students talk about how these merchants differ from Dikoy, that is, the merchant depicted in the drama “The Thunderstorm,” and explain how the merchants relate to each other and to Larisa. As a result - a note in the notes: a new type of merchants; complete disregard for public opinion; wariness and distrust of each other; cold prudence and callousness.

One more, final link that closes the circle of indifference and cruelty, beyond which the “hot heart” of the heroine of the drama “Dowry” is torn. This is Kharita Ignatievna Ogudalova, mother of Larisa Dmitrievna. A.N. Ostrovsky begins his characterization of this character, number one on the list of characters, with a name in which all three components (first name, patronymic, last name) speak volumes.

So, the name Charita comes from the Greek word charis, which means “grace, charm, beauty.” In Moscow at the time of the playwright, every gypsy was called Ignati. The surname Ogudalova is formed from the verb “ogudati”, which is interpreted as follows: to deceive. Let's put everything together and get the following: before the audience is not just a middle-aged widow, but a lovely gypsy who dresses gracefully and, unlike her daughter, boldly and beyond her years. (We write down the meaning of the name in the notes.)

How does Kharita Ignatievna feel about her daughter?

Student. Kharita Ignatievna cannot understand the desire of her daughter, who dreams of immediately leaving Bryakhimov for the village immediately after the wedding. She has no idea what is going on in Larisa’s soul.

Kharita Ignatievna has a lot in common with Knurov, Vozhevatov and other people in this circle. But the main thing is that they all look at Larisa asthing.

Based on the provisions indicated in the summary, show the main features of the play “Dowry”.

Student. 1. At the center of the play “Dowry” A.N. Ostrovsky placed the heroine, since in the conditions of Russian post-reform reality the playwright did not find a hero endowed with high moral qualities, capable of performing such actions that would clearly indicate his desire to fight evil, reigning in the world. If successful businessmen did any good, it was only a beautiful gesture, the purpose of which was to attract attention to themselves, and not a sincere desire to do good.

2. The play “Dowry” is a psychological drama, since all attention is focused on the feelings and movements of the heroine’s soul, and not on actions. “The line of struggle,” we read in A.I. Zhuravleva’s article “The Thousand-Year Monument of Russia,” which opens the collection of selected works of the writer “Theater and Life,” “passes through the soul of Larisa herself, her personality is devoid of integrity, and she herself is a battlefield between the elemental the desire for purity and false ideas about life values. Thus, at the center of the play is a contradictory nature, and the most suitable genre for embodying such a character is precisely the psychological drama.” (Annex 1)

VIII. Homework

Drawing up topics and plans for essays.

Bibliography

Zolotareva I.V., Mikhailova T.I. Lesson developments in literatureXIXV. 10th grade 1st semester. 2nd half of the year. Ed. 3rd, rev. and additional Updated set of lessons. M.: "VAKO", 2004.

Now the triumph of the bourgeoisie... in the full sense, the golden age is coming.

A. Ostrovsky

Money, gold, and material values ​​have at all times been of no small importance for humans and society. But there are times in history when money begins to play a primary role. They push aside all other values ​​because everything becomes a commodity. And then “it’s good for those who have a lot of money,” as Mokiy Parmenych Knurov says in “Dowry.” Ostrovsky dedicated this play to precisely one of these periods, when a new bourgeois class was being formed in Russia and capitalist relations were being formed. “These are vile times,” according to the playwright himself. But they are inevitable in the development of the economy and are repeated at every new turn of history. Today we live in similar times. Therefore, Ostrovsky’s play is relevant and interesting for the modern reader.

The theme of money in “Dowry” is already evident in its very title. From the first pages of the play, money is the main subject of conversation. Their presence or absence determines a person’s place in society and attitude towards him. The owner of a huge fortune, Mokiy Parmenych Knurov, has no one to talk to in the city. Even the bartender Tavrilo understands that he can only speak with his equals. And there are “two or three such rich people in the city.” Among them is the young merchant Vozhevatov. Even on holidays, while walking, they talk about profitable deals and new acquisitions. They speak with the same feelings about the brilliant four horses of the rich man Chirkov, and about Larisa Dmitrievna. After all, she is also a commodity, an “expensive diamond” that people look at and ask the price of. When you read the play, you get the feeling that you are in an unusual market where everything is bought and sold: Knurov and Vozhevatov buy pleasure - with small gifts they pay for the opportunity to be in the company of a charming girl, and her mother deftly and willingly sells her daughter’s youth, talent and beauty . “You have to pay for pleasure” - this rule is accepted unconditionally, and failure to comply with it would be simply indecent. Paratov is selling not only his favorite ship, but also his will. The ship is cheap, but the shipowner valued his willow at half a million. This is the dowry of the new bride. But he almost “made people laugh” by succumbing to feelings and marrying the dowry Larisa. But a business person must know that “every product has a price,” even if we are talking about love, beauty, and happiness.

Poor official Karandyshev hates the rich and self-confident owners of his new life. But at the same time he really wants to become his own person among them. And he finds a way: to marry the dowryless Larisa with a good noble surname. But he has no intention of paying for his purchase, believing that his very act is worthy of the eternal love and gratitude of the poor bride. For him, marrying Larisa is compensation for the moral damage caused to the pride, pride and vanity of a poor man who wanted to live like a rich man.

Even the main character, despairing of finding love and understanding, decides to look for money: “If you are a thing, there is only one consolation - to be expensive, very expensive.” But when Karandyshev’s shot prevented her from carrying out her plan, she thanks him for the “good deed” that he did for her.

There will always be people who cannot fit into new social relationships. They do not want to accept other people's rules or live by moral standards that are not typical for them. And they have a choice: remain themselves or become like everyone else. And to do this, you need to “step over” your beliefs, abandon your own life values, that is, make a deal with time, which dictates its terms.

L. Tolstoy and F. Dostoevsky will write about the difficulties of choice. And Ostrovsky’s heroine leaves the stage, passes away. Now is not her time. The “Golden Age” is not for everyone.

The concept of the drama “Dowry” was conceived by A. N. Ostrovsky in 1874. The original plot was completely different (an old woman with three daughters, two lovers). According to some reports, the writer developed the original version under the impression of the Kineshma case of a husband killing his wife out of jealousy. A big role in the scandalous story was played by the “millionaire” I. A. Konovalov (a possible prototype of Knurov).

The play was completed at the end of 1878. A few days later its premiere took place at the Moscow Maly Theater.

Meaning of the name

The title “Dowry” indicates the main character and her life tragedy. Larisa does not have a good dowry, which in Ostrovsky's era was a serious obstacle to marriage.

The main theme of the work

The main theme of the work is the tragic fate of the homeless woman.

Larisa is a very beautiful, educated girl with a taste for music. These undoubted advantages attract fans to her. But as soon as admirers of Larisa’s talents find out that she is poor, the courtship stops. Nobody wants a poor wife who has to be supported.

Kharita Ignatievna continues to have high hopes for Larisa. She specifically attracts young people to the house, forcing her daughter to entertain them. The eldest Ogudalova admits that Larisa has absolutely no feminine cunning. If Larisa had wanted to, she would have “wounded” a rich man long ago. The girl hates lies and pretense. She dreams of pure great love.

Larisa’s dream began to come true when she met Paratov. For the first time, the girl saw a real man who appreciated her personal merits, and not her financial situation. However, Sergei Sergeich suddenly disappeared; The life of the homeless woman fell into the usual rut, boring to tears.

Larisa makes the decision to marry the insignificant Karandashev out of despair before the collapse of her dreams. A marriage with Yuliy Kapitonich will not bring her happiness, but at least it will allow her to take a certain position in society and take her out of the “booth” into which her house, filled with suitors through her mother’s efforts, has turned.

Paratov's unexpected return becomes the cause of the tragedy that unfolds. Dead hopes come to life again in Larisa's soul. She, without hesitation, leaves her fiancé and goes after her loved one. Having given herself to Paratov, Larisa is sure that this automatically makes them husband and wife. Sergei Sergeevich's gross deception deals the final blow to the dreamy girl. She no longer expects anything from her disgusted life.

Larisa remains grateful to Karandyshev for his fatal shot. Only in this terrible way does she manage to break free and stop feeling the stigma of being homeless.

Issues

Larisa's main problem is that due to the lack of a dowry, no one around her sees her as a living person with her own feelings and desires.

The mother dreams of getting rid of her daughter as quickly as possible and hopes to improve her financial situation with the help of her profitable marriage. For Knurov and Vozhevatov, Larisa is a toy, an “expensive diamond” that requires an “expensive frame” and a “good jeweler.” Both businessmen play a toss with the girl in the finale with open cynicism.

Ilya Kapitonich seems to really love Larisa, but after receiving the girl’s consent to marriage, his attitude changes. The quiet and modest official is transformed. Larisa becomes for him just a successful means to finally satisfy his pride. It is no coincidence that the homeless woman says to her fiancé: “...I am a doll for you, you will play with me, break me and throw me away.”

The opportunity to “play” with Larisa is given to the “ideal man.” For Sergei Sergeevich, using the “expensive toy” is not a big deal, because the homeless woman believed him and was cruelly deceived.

Larisa’s fall also did not particularly excite anyone except herself. Paratov speaks of “instant infatuation.” Knurov is even pleased with this, since the “expensive diamond” becomes much more affordable. The pitiful Karandyshev hopes to once again take possession of the now fallen woman.

Another problem raised in the drama is the emergence of a new type of people in Russia at the end of the 19th century. “Millionaire businessmen” like Knurov, having amassed fabulous fortunes in a short time, felt like complete masters of life. Larisa and Karandyshev seem to them to be such small people that their feelings and desires do not matter.

Composition

The drama consists of four acts with a clearly defined exposition (the conversation between Knurov and Vozhevatov), ​​a beginning (the arrival of Paratov), ​​a climax (the gala dinner and the flight of the bride) and a denouement (the murder of Larisa).

What the author teaches

Using the example of Larisa Ogudalova, Ostrovsky shows what a callous attitude towards a living person can lead to. The fate of an intelligent and beautiful girl turned out to be mercilessly broken only because she had no money.

A.N. Ostrovsky created an amazing gallery of Russian characters. The main characters were representatives of the merchant class - from the "Domostroevsky" tyrants to real businessmen. The playwright’s female characters were no less bright and expressive. Some of them resembled the heroines of I.S. Turgenev: they were just as brave and decisive, had warm hearts and never gave up their feelings. Below is an analysis of Ostrovsky's "Dowry", where the main character is a bright personality, different from the people who surrounded her.

History of creation

The analysis of Ostrovsky's "Dowry" should begin with the history of its writing. In the 1870s, Alexander Nikolaevich was an honorary judge in one district. Participation in trials and familiarity with various cases gave him a new opportunity to search for topics for his works.

Researchers of his life and work suggest that he took the plot for this play from his judicial practice. It was a case that caused a lot of noise in the county - the murder of his young wife by a local resident. Ostrovsky began writing the play in 1874, but work progressed slowly. And only in 1878 the play was completed.

Characters and their brief descriptions

The next point in the analysis of Ostrovsky's "Dowry" is a small description of the characters in the play.

Larisa Ogudalova is the main character. A beautiful and impressionable noblewoman. Despite her sensitive nature, she is a proud girl. Its main drawback is poverty. Therefore, her mother tries to find her a rich groom. Larisa is in love with Paratov, but he leaves her. Then, out of despair, she decides to marry Karandyshev.

Sergei Paratov is a nobleman who is over 30 years old. An unprincipled, cold and calculating person. Everything is measured in money. He is going to marry a rich girl, but does not tell Larisa about it.

Yuliy Kapitonich Karandyshev is a minor official who has little money. Vain, his main goal is to win the respect of others and impress them. Larisa is jealous of Paratov.

Vasily Vozhevatov is a young rich merchant. I have known the main character since childhood. A cunning person without any moral principles.

Mokiy Parmenych Knurov is an elderly merchant, the richest man in the city. He likes young Ogudalova, but he is a married man. Therefore, Knurov wants her to become his kept woman. Selfish, only his own interests are important to him.

Kharita Ignatievna Ogudalova is Larisa’s mother, a widow. Cunningly, she tries to give her daughter away in marriage so that they don’t need anything. Therefore, he believes that any means are suitable for this.

Robinson is an actor, mediocrity, drunkard. Paratov's friend.

One of the points of analysis of Ostrovsky's "Dowry" is a brief description of the plot of the play. The action takes place in the Volga region town of Bryakhimov. In the first act, the reader learns from a conversation between Knurov and Vozhevatov that Sergei Paratov, a rich gentleman who loves to appear spectacularly in society, is returning to the city.

He left Bryakhimov so quickly that he did not say goodbye to Larisa Ogudalova, who was in love with him. She was in despair over his departure. Knurov and Vozhevatov say that she is beautiful, smart and performs romances incomparably. Only her suitors avoid her because she is without a dowry.

Realizing this, her mother constantly keeps the doors of the house open, in the hope that a rich groom will woo Larisa. The girl decides to marry a minor official, Yuri Kapitonich Karandyshev. During the walk, the merchants inform them about Paratov's arrival. Karandyshev invites them to a dinner party in honor of his bride. Yuliy Kapitonich creates a scandal with his bride because of Paratov.

Meanwhile, Paratov himself, in a conversation with the merchants, says that he was going to marry the daughter of the owner of the gold mines. And Larisa is no longer interested in him, but the news about her marriage makes him think.

Larisa quarrels with her fiancé because she wants to go to the village with him as soon as possible. Karandyshev, despite the lack of funds, is going to give a dinner party. Ogudalova has an explanation with Paratov. He accuses her of cheating and asks if she loves him. The girl agrees.

Paratov decided to humiliate Larisa’s fiance in front of the guests. He gets him drunk at dinner, and then persuades the girl to go on a boat trip with him. After spending the night with her, he tells her that he has a fiancee. The girl understands that she is disgraced. She agrees to become Knurov’s kept woman, who won her in a dispute with Vozhevatov. But Yuri Karandyshev shot Larisa out of jealousy. The girl thanks him and says that she is not offended by anyone.

Image of Larisa Ogudalova

In the analysis of Ostrovsky's "Dowry", one should also consider the image of the main character. Larisa appeared before the reader as a beautiful, educated noblewoman, but without a dowry. And, finding herself in a society where the main criterion is money, she was faced with the fact that no one took her feelings seriously.

Possessing an ardent soul and a warm heart, she falls in love with the treacherous Paratov. But because of his feelings, he cannot see his real character. Larisa feels lonely - no one even tries to understand her, everyone uses her like a thing. But despite her delicate nature, the girl has a proud disposition. And just like all heroes, she is afraid of poverty. Therefore, she feels even more contempt for her fiancé.

In the analysis of Ostrovsky's "Dowry", it should be noted that Larisa does not have great fortitude. She does not decide to commit suicide or start living the way she wants. She accepts the fact that she is a thing and refuses to fight any further. Therefore, the groom’s shot brought her peace of mind; the girl was glad that all her suffering was over and she had found peace.

Image of Yuri Karandyshev

In the analysis of the play "Dowry" by Ostrovsky, one can also consider the image of the heroine's groom. Yuliy Kapitonich is shown to the reader as a small person for whom it is important to earn the recognition of others. For him, a thing has value if rich people have it.

This is a proud person who lives for show and only causes contempt from others because of his pathetic attempts to be like them. Karandyshev, most likely, did not love Larisa: he understood that all men would envy him, because she was the dream of many. And he hoped to receive the public recognition he so desired after their wedding. Therefore, Yuliy Kapitonich could not come to terms with the fact that she left him.

Comparison with Katerina

A comparative analysis of Ostrovsky's "The Thunderstorm" and "Dowry" helps to find not only similarities, but also differences between the works. Both heroines are bright personalities, and their chosen ones are weak and weak-willed people. Katerina and Larisa have warm hearts and fall madly in love with men who correspond to their imaginary ideal.

Both heroines feel lonely in society, and the internal conflict is heating up more and more. And here the differences appear. Larisa did not have the inner strength that Katerina had. Kabanova could not come to terms with life in a society where tyranny and despotism reigned. She rushed into the Volga. Larisa, realizing that she is a thing for everyone, cannot decide to take such a step. And the girl doesn’t even think about fighting - she simply decides to live now like everyone else. Perhaps this is why the viewer immediately liked the heroine Katerina Kabanova.

Stage productions

In the analysis of Ostrovsky's drama "Dowry", it can be noted that, contrary to expectations, the production failed. The viewer found the story about a provincial girl who was deceived by a fan boring. Critics also did not like the acting: for them it was too melodramatic. And only in 1896 the play was staged again. And even then the audience was able to accept and appreciate it.

An analysis of Ostrovsky's work "Dowry" allows us to show what a serious psychological subtext the play has. How detailed the characters are. And, despite the sentimental scenes, the play belongs to the genre of realism. And her characters joined the gallery of Russian characters masterfully described by A.N. Ostrovsky.

The significance of the work of A. N. Ostrovsky in the history of not only Russian literature, but also the national theater, is unusually great. I. A. Goncharov wrote: “You brought a whole library of works of art as a gift to literature, you created your own special world for the stage. You alone completed the building, the foundation of which was laid by Fonvizin, Griboyedov, Gogol. But only after you, we Russians can proudly say: we have our own Russian national theater.”

A. N. Ostrovsky created his works in the second half of the 19th century, when, with the development of industry, new economic and social relations emerged. This also influenced the plots and images of comedies.

The playwright managed to reflect an entire era of Russian life. The main conflict of his works is the clash between people of “warm heart” and the forces of the “dark kingdom”. A. N. Ostrovsky managed to show with exceptional skill how attitudes towards money are changing. Capital allows you to gain real power over people and influence their destinies. Of course, the topic of money is not completely new in literature. One can recall “The Miserly Knight” by A. S. Pushkin and “The Inspector General” by N. V. Gogol. But if the baron experiences inexplicable pleasure from the process of accumulation itself, reveling in the consciousness of the possible power that wealth gives, then in Gogol’s comedy “easy money” passes from hand to hand, which does not serve to enrich the hero. Khlestakov is ready to part with his money: “Come on, now, capital, come to me now! Let's see who wins!” The theme of money is only one of the components of the theme of the game. For Ostrovsky, money also determines the characters’ attitude to life. So, for example, in the drama “Dream” Dikoy cannot part with even a penny; it physically pains him to give away even what does not belong to him: “after all, I already know that I have to give away, but I can’t do everything with goodness: “The power of money breaks people’s destinies.” Boris, Dikiy’s nephew, refuses the love of pure and ardent Katerina in the name of the possibility of ever receiving an inheritance. Money probably also played a role in the decision of Katerina’s parents to marry her to Tikhon Kabanov. Tikhon, who sincerely loves his wife, obeys his domineering mother in everything, as it seems to me, also because he depends on Marfa Ignatievna’s money. In the play “The Dowry,” the fates of all the characters are predetermined by their attitude to money. In an effort to arrange her daughter’s fate, Kharita Ogudalova is forced to keep her house open and receive guests, while she constantly counts expenses and scolds the cook for her unwillingness to bargain. She even gives away one of the gifts for her daughter for the item she would like to give. In "Dowry" the theme of money is extremely important. We can say that it is money, capital or the lack thereof that determines the actions of the characters, and in many ways their fate. Knurov, the “millionaire”, who has no one to talk to in Brekhimov, decides to simply buy the love of Larisa Ogudalova. Vozhevatov, who is connected by friendship with the Ogudalov family, refuses to help Larisa because he gave his “honest merchant word” to Knurov. The thirst for money, solid capital forces Paratov to “sell his freedom”, abandoning a sincere feeling, the value of which he understands. However, not only Paratov, Knurov, Vozhevatov play a tragic role in the fate of the main character of the play. Karandyshev, an insignificant official of the postal department, who, as it seems at first glance, sincerely loves Larisa and seeks to save her from the cruel world of pure money, commits actions that push this young girl to death. When Larisa Ogudalova, out of complete hopelessness, realizing that she is losing Paratov, agrees to accept Karandysheya’s proposal, she quite honestly says that she does not love him, but she will try to love him and will be a worthy wife for him. The heroine asks this man only one thing; quickly leave for the village. But Karandyshev, being an ambitious man who has never before been able to satisfy this feeling to some extent, insists that the wedding must be in the city. Karandyshev does not understand the heroine’s desire to leave, leaving her passionate plea practically unanswered: “Let’s leave, let’s leave here.” In addition, he arranges a kind of dinner party, invites Knurov, Vozhevatov, and the visiting Paratov to it, makes a toast in which he not only extols the wonderful qualities of his future wife in every possible way, but also tries to prove to all those gathered that he is not just “an equal “to them, but much higher than them, because it was him that Larisa preferred. But he knows for sure that the choice is not at all determined by merits. Larisa openly told Karandyshev about this, and, explaining why he needs this dinner, the hero asks his bride: “Please take pity on me at least a little!” Let strangers at least think that you love me, that your choice was free.” And at this time Karandyshev thinks not about Larisa, her feelings, but only about himself. It seems to me that A.N. Ostrovsky, creatively developing the theme of the “little man,” showed how cruel a person, whom others always perceived as a nonentity, a scumbag, can be if he gets into his hands at least some kind of power over others. However, Karandyshev also evokes sympathy; this image is far from unambiguous. This character is not without positive qualities, he tries to keep the heroine from a rash act, as it seems to him, he saves her, opens her eyes to the agreement between Knurov and Vozhevatov: “They don’t look at you as a woman, as a person... they look on you as on a thing...” It is Karandyshev who kills Larisa; he does this in states of anger and horror, literally in a fit of jealousy. But by this act, he saves the heroine from the need to make a decision, from the need to live on, not wanting such an existence and not having the strength to change it. Larisa is fully aware that she will not be able to give up her life. Standing in thought over the Volga, she says: “What is holding me over this abyss?.. Pathetic weakness: to live, at least somehow, but to live... when you can’t live and don’t need to.” After all, the main character could not live without love. She finds no place in the world of Paratov, Knurov and people like them, but she cannot live in the world of Karandyshev. It seems that this is precisely what Larisa’s ill-fated fiancé could not understand; for this he did not have enough nobility and spiritual subtlety. Karandyshev takes the only decisive action in his life almost without remembering himself; it even seems that the heroine herself is forcing him to do it. It is no coincidence that Larisa Ogudalova says: “The gun is here, here, on the table! It's me... myself. Oh, what a blessing..." The fate of the main character of this wonderful play by A. N. Ostrovsky is tragic; this is largely determined by the power that money has over many people. All the people who surround Larisa look at her precisely as a thing that can be sold or purchased at a profit. The heroine’s mother hopes to find a profitable husband for the “dowryless” woman, and if that doesn’t work out, then, as Knurov suggests, “the warm sympathy of a strong, rich man.” At the end of the drama, Paratov was ready to give Larisa into any hands. Knurov and Vozhevatov cast lots, and each of them is ready, at least temporarily, to come to terms with its outcome. In this situation, Karandyshev turns out to be the only one who does not want and cannot be someone else’s thing for the heroine. It is this “funny man” who does Larisa a “good deed” by killing her.

The ending of the play is complex, but it still becomes absolutely clear to the reader that it is subtle; A pure, although spiritually devastated by life in a cruel world, the heroine, who finds the strength to forgive, stands immeasurably higher than the people around her.