Poor Folk · Chapter
August 3rd: My Angel, Barbara Alexievna explained
Makar writes to Barbara, expressing renewed hope despite his dire financial straits.
What happens
Makar writes to Barbara, expressing renewed hope despite his dire financial straits. He recounts his failed attempt to borrow money from Peter Petrovitch, who humiliates him by ignoring his request. Emelia Ivanovitch offers encouragement and promises to recommend a moneylender in Viborskaia Street. Makar despairs over his shabby appearance and the threat of eviction.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Rising action.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This is the story's dramatic climax because it marks the emotional and psychological peak where Varvara’s desp…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Poverty and Deprivation
Makar's desperate need for money, his shabby boots and uniform, and the threat of eviction underscore his material deprivation.
- Social Class and Hierarchy
Makar's humiliation by Peter Petrovitch and his fear of his Excellency's judgment illustrate the oppressive class distinctions in the office.
Characters to notice
- Makar Alexievitch Dievushkin
Narrates his desperate attempt to borrow money and his humiliation at the office.
- Barbara Alexievna Dobroselova
The recipient of Makar's letter; he seeks her advice and reassurance.
- Emelia Ivanovitch
A kind colleague who advises Makar to borrow from Peter Petrovitch and later promises to recommend a moneylender.
- Peter Petrovitch
A moneylender who dismisses Makar's request for a loan, humiliating him.
Key passages
“I told him all—or, rather, I did not tell him everything, for that I do to no man (I have not the heart to do it); I told him just a few scattered details concerning my financial straits.”
Makar confides in Emelia Ivanovitch about his money troubles, but holds back the full truth out of shame.
Highlights Makar's pride and reluctance to fully expose his vulnerability.
“He only burst out laughing, and said nothing. Again I addressed to him my request; whereupon, asking me what security I could give, he again buried himself in his papers, and went on writing without deigning me even a second glance.”
Peter Petrovitch laughs at Makar's request for a loan and dismisses him by demanding collateral, then ignores him.
Illustrates the cold, dehumanizing treatment Makar receives from those in a slightly higher social position.
