Overview
The Master and Margarita is an underground masterpiece of twentieth-century Russian fiction by Mikhail Bulgakov. Written during Stalin’s regime and published only many years after the author’s death, this legendary work defies conventional boundaries between fantasy, satire, and political commentary.
Synopsis
When the devil arrives in 1930s Moscow, accompanied by a motley crew that includes a talking black cat, an assassin, and a beautiful naked witch, his chaotic antics upend the orderly lives of the literary elite in the world capital of atheism. Meanwhile, the Master, the tormented author of an unpublished novel about Jesus and Pontius Pilate, is confined to a psychiatric hospital, while his devoted lover, Margarita, makes a desperate bargain to save him. Bulgakov’s narrative weaves between the mystic streets of Moscow and ancient Jerusalem, revealing scenes as diverse as a raucous Satanic ball and the somber murder of Judas in Gethsemane.
Key Themes
- Good vs. Evil: Explore the timeless struggle between light and darkness as personified by the devil’s mischief and the redemptive power of love.
- Freedom of Expression: A bold critique of the oppressive political climate under Stalin’s regime and a celebration of artistic defiance.
- Interplay of Reality and Fantasy: The narrative blurs the boundaries between the mundane and the magical, inviting readers to question the nature of reality.
- Love and Sacrifice: The enduring relationship between the Master and Margarita serves as a poignant testament to love’s transformative power.
Book Details
ISBN-13: 9780099540946
ISBN-10: 0099540940
Conclusion
A literary gift almost lost to the clutches of an oppressive regime, The Master and Margarita remains a testament to the resilience of art and the human spirit. Bulgakov's masterful blend of satire, fantasy, and profound philosophical insight continues to captivate readers worldwide. Whether you are a devoted admirer of Russian literature or a newcomer to this classic, this book offers an unforgettable journey into a world where the boundaries of reality are continually redefined.
Immerse yourself in the magic, mystery, and enduring power of Bulgakov’s masterpiece—experience the legend of the Master and Margarita today.
