Social Class and Identity

Where it surfaces

• I

  The chapter contrasts the gentility of the Kalitin household with Gedeonovsky's humble origins as a village priest's son, and Marfa Timofyevna's blunt remarks underscore class distinctions.

• II

  The characters' concern with reputation, propriety, and family connections highlights the importance of social standing.

• IV

  Panshin's ease in high society, his background as a gambler's son, and his calculated charm illustrate the fluidity and performance of social status.

• VII

  Lavretsky's decision to live at a modest estate rather than his grand house reflects his shifting social identity and desire for simplicity.

• VIII

  The chapter explores class boundaries through Ivan's marriage to the serf Malanya, which defies his father's expectations and leads to disinheritance.

• IX

  Malanya is treated as an upstart and a runaway wench by the Lavretskys, and her lowly origins are constantly reminded by Glafira, emphasizing class divisions within the family.

• Chapter X

  Ivan Petrovitch's Anglomaniac identity clashes with Russian traditions, yet his reforms are superficial, leaving the existing power structures intact.

• XIII

  The Korobyin family's fall from military prominence to a modest Moscow existence illustrates the fragility of social standing and the importance of reputation.

• XIV

  The Korobyins' interest in Lavretsky's serf count highlights the role of social standing and wealth in marriage arrangements.

• XV

  Varvara Pavlovna's rise in Parisian society and Lavretsky's discomfort with a frivolous life highlight class and identity tensions.

• XVII

  Marfa Timofyevna's pride in her Pestov lineage and her disdain for Panshin's social climbing reflect class consciousness; Nastasya Karpovna's modest fortune and dependence on Marfa Timofyevna illustrate the precarious position of poor nobility.

• XXVIII

  The crowded drawing-room scene contrasts Lavretsky's reserved, introspective nature with Panshin's polished, socially adept manner, highlighting class and identity differences.

• XXXIII

  Panshin's criticism of Lavretsky's 'dubious position in society' and the debate over who should lead reform highlight class and identity tensions.

• XXXIV

  Panshin's supercilious tone and contempt for Russia contrast with Lisa's deep connection to the Russian people, highlighting class and national identity.

• XXXVIII

  Panshin's status as a Kammerjunker and Marya Dmitrievna's emphasis on his eligibility reflect the importance of social standing in marriage.

• XXXIX

  Varvara Pavlovna's manipulative charm and elegant dress allow her to navigate and win over the Kalitin household, despite her scandalous past, illustrating the fluidity and performance of social identity.

• XL

  Varvara's 'lioness' persona and Parisian sophistication elevate her status in the drawing-room, contrasting with Marya Dmitrievna's provincial kindness and Panshin's diplomatic pretensions.

• Epilogue

  The transformation of the Kalitin household and the fates of characters like Panshin and Mihalevitch illustrate the shifting social roles and identities in Russian society.