The Little Demon (Paperback, Fyodor Sologub)

The novel follows the life of Peredonov, a schoolteacher in a provincial Russian town. Peredonov is a deeply flawed and morally corrupt character who harbors a bitter resentment towards the world around him. As the story unfolds, his dark thoughts, paranoia, and delusions begin to consume him, leading to a descent into madness. "The Little Demon" explores themes of moral decay, hypocrisy, and the psychological disintegration of its protagonist. Sologub presents a bleak portrayal of human nature, revealing the dark underbelly of a seemingly idyllic society. The novel is known for its exploration of the perverse and grotesque aspects of human behavior, as well as its atmospheric descriptions and intricate psychological characterizations. Through Peredonov's perspective, Sologub delves into the themes of alienation, self-deception, and the corruption of innocence. The novel reflects the author's critique of the moral and social decay prevalent in late 19th-century Russian society. "The Little Demon" is often regarded as a precursor to the works of other Russian writers who explored similar themes, such as Fyodor Dostoevsky and Mikhail Bulgakov. It stands as a significant contribution to Russian literature of the time, known for its dark and unsettling portrayal of the human psyche. Sologub's writing style in "The Little Demon" is characterized by its vivid imagery, lyrical prose, and its exploration of the darkest recesses of the human mind. The novel offers a deeply introspective and psychological examination of its troubled protagonist, immersing readers in a world of moral ambiguity and psychological turmoil.