What Is to Be Done? · Question
How does What Is to Be Done? develop the theme of Freedom and Individuality?
Answer
What Is to Be Done? by Nikolay Chernyshevsky develops Freedom and Individuality across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
Characters consistently assert their right to personal freedom, whether from family tyranny, societal expectations, or romantic possessiveness, with Vera Pavlovna's dreams symbolizing the ideal of complete self-determination.
The chapter poses the question of how to achieve personal freedom within a repressive society.
The discussion touches on the importance of personal freedom and the individual's role in shaping a just society.
Vera's decision to leave Petersburg and seek independence through singing lessons reflects her struggle for personal freedom and moral integrity in the face of guilt.
Evidence in the book
- What Is to Be Done?
The chapter poses the question of how to achieve personal freedom within a repressive society.
- A Vital Question
The discussion touches on the importance of personal freedom and the individual's role in shaping a just society.
- II: The First Consequences of the Fool’s Deed
Vera's decision to leave Petersburg and seek independence through singing lessons reflects her struggle for personal freedom and moral integrity in the face of guilt.
- II
Julie asserts her French identity as free and struggling, contrasting with Serge's passive acceptance of societal constraints.
- IV
Julie's unconventional lifestyle and her advice to Vera to avoid a kiss without love emphasize the theme of personal freedom and authentic emotional expression.
- VI
Viérotchka's passionate declaration of her desire to be free and independent, rejecting societal expectations and the idea of marrying for convenience.
- VII
Vera asserts her autonomy by refusing an unwanted marriage, threatening extreme measures to maintain her freedom.
- IX
Viérotchka's refusal to conform to her mother's plans and her insistence on postponing her answer demonstrate her struggle for personal autonomy.
