The Little Demon · Chapters

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Chapter companions for The Little Demon by Fyodor Sologub.

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Chapter 1
Translators’ Preface
The translators' preface introduces the novel The Little Demon as a fusion of comedy and tragedy, comparing it to Gogol's Dead Souls. It argues that the protagonist Peredonov is a universal character found everywhere, not just in Russia. The preface discusses the novel's exploration of inner evil, the symbolic Nedotikomka, and the contrasting Sasha-Liudmilla episode. It also notes the challenges of translating the work's slang, puns, and descriptive prose.
Chapter 2
Author's Preface to the Second Russian Edition, 1908
Sologub introduces his novel The Little Demon, explaining its composition history from 1892 to 1902 and its publication in 1905 and 1907. He addresses two critical responses: one claiming the novel is a self-portrait of the author as a wicked man, and another viewing Peredonovshchina as a widespread phenomenon. Sologub endorses the latter, asserting that the novel is a mirror of his contemporaries, reflecting both monstrous and beautiful aspects with precision.
Chapter 3
Author's Preface to the Fifth Russian Edition, 1909
In this preface, the author reflects on rumors about Peredonov's fate after his confinement for killing Volodin. Some say he was released and joined the police or became a literary critic, while others claim a different Peredonov served. Varvara allegedly convinced the Princess Volchanskaya to take interest in Peredonov's case. The author expresses skepticism but promises to report further if reliable information emerges.
Chapter 4
Dialogue to the Seventh Russian Edition, 1913
A brief dialogue between the author and his soul, reflecting on the hate and abuse directed at the author of 'The Little Demon.' The soul is dismayed by the hostility, but the author suggests the hate stems from fear of his frankness and truth. The soul is portrayed as a refined, European figure out of place in a crude, provincial setting.
Chapter 5
Author's Introduction to the English Edition
Fyodor Sologub expresses both pride and apprehension about the English translation of his novel, warning readers not to see it as a mere portrayal of Russian life but as a universal exploration of the human inclination towards evil, loneliness, and the tragic path to madness and death.

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Translators’ Preface

Author's Preface to the Second Russian Edition, 1908

Author's Preface to the Fifth Russian Edition, 1909

Dialogue to the Seventh Russian Edition, 1913

Author's Introduction to the English Edition