What Is to Be Done? · Theme
The New People
How What Is to Be Done? develops The New People.
The novel introduces a new type of person—rational, honest, and dedicated to progress—who reject old social norms and live by principles of equality, hard work, and mutual aid, serving as models for social change.
Where it surfaces
- Chapter X
Lopukhóf and Kirsánov's selfless, rational approach to helping Vera without romantic or aesthetic considerations.
- Chapter VI
The picnic exemplifies the new social order where men and women, from various backgrounds, interact freely and engage in intellectual and physical activities.
- VIII
The chapter is a direct exposition of the 'new type' of person represented by Lopukhóf and Kirsánov, emphasizing their shared traits of dauntlessness, integrity, and rational practicality.
- IX
The discussion of a distinct type of people with unique moral and sensual understandings aligns with the concept of 'new people'.
- Chapter X
Kirsánof embodies the 'new person'—a rational, dedicated scientist who prioritizes research and truth over conventional medical practice and social approval.
- XIII
The cooperative sewing shop exemplifies the 'new people's' ideals of mutual aid and rational organization, as seen in the care for Nástenka.
- XIV: Nástenka’s Story
Sáshenka embodies the rational, compassionate 'new person' who rescues Nástenka through education, medical care, and genuine love.
- XVI
The cooperative sewing shop, shared intellectual pursuits, and egalitarian social circles exemplify the ideals of the 'new people.'
- XXIX: An Extraordinary Man
Rakhmétof embodies the 'extraordinary man' ideal, living by strict principles of self-denial and dedication to humanity, representing a higher stage of the new people.
- Rakhmétov's Visit and the Letter
Rakhmétov embodies the 'extraordinary man' who lives by strict principles, while Vera is held to a high standard of responsibility toward the collective.
- XXXI: A Colloquy with the Sapient Reader, and His Banishment
The author explicitly describes Vera, Lopukhov, and Kirsanov as 'ordinary decent people of the rising generation,' embodying the new rational and ethical ideals.
- Part IV: Second Marriage
Vera and Kirsanov exemplify the 'new people'—progressive individuals who reject societal conventions and strive for personal and social transformation.
- XIII
Describes the 'people of the new dispensation' who live by these enlightened principles, forming a harmonious social circle.
- Part V: New People, and the Finale
The chapter culminates the portrayal of the 'new people'—rational, enlightened individuals who reject bourgeois conventions and build a cooperative, egalitarian society.
- XII
Beaumont's mysterious interest in the Kirsánofs and the cooperative underscores the emergence of a new, rational, and progressive social circle.
