Doll

Author: [Poland] Boles?aw Prus
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-10-01
Features:
Introduction: The Master of Polish Critical Realism, Boles?aw Prus, presents a broad picture of mid-19th century Polish society in his novel The Doll. It is an era tragedy depicting the struggle between the declining Polish aristocracy and the emerging bourgeoisie, holding significant status in both Polish and world literature. It has been hailed by many domestic literary critics as Poland's Dream of the Red Chamber.
Synopsis: The protagonist, Wokulski, hails from a declining noble family. To improve his family's situation, he diligently studies and earns a university degree. He is exiled for participating in an uprising. Upon his return, he marries a widowed grocery store owner out of desperation due to hunger and poverty. After his wife's death, he inherits a fortune. During the Russo-Turkish War, he takes risks and engages in military supply business in Bulgaria, amassing great wealth and becoming a prominent figure in Warsaw. At this time, he helps the poor, cares for his employees, saves prostitutes, and is deeply beloved by the impoverished people. Unfortunately, he falls in love with the morally corrupt noblewoman Izabella, while also being fond of the noblewoman Staviska, who is in dire straits. He believes he is unworthy of Staviska's holy love, while the Izabella he pursues treats him merely as a source of wealth and a doll, even flirting with a dandy in his presence. The suffering protagonist sees through the shamelessness and hypocrisy of the nobility and ultimately abandons his wealth to live a reclusive life. This book is directly translated from Polish by the renowned translator Mr. Zhang Zhenhui, faithfully reflecting the content and style of the original work.