Childhood My University (Full Translation with Illustrations)

Author: Maxim Gorky (USSR)
Publisher:
Publishing Date: Not available
Features: Childhood, In the World, and My University are Gorky's famous trilogy of autobiographical novels. They depict a colorful historical panorama of the social life in Russia during the 1870s and 1880s, based on Gorky's own life experiences. These works are an outstanding artistic treasure. The protagonist, Alyosha, not only reflects Gorky's early life but also represents the artistic archetype of the Russian working class, who, after enduring harsh and complex trials, embark on a new path in life. Childhood portrays Alyosha's years spent living with his mother at his grandmother's house after his father's death. During this time, he receives the love and care of his grandmother, is nurtured by the beautiful fairy tales she tells, and also witnesses the quarrels and fights between his two uncles over family property, as well as their selfishness and greed in daily life. The existence of good and evil, love and hatred in real life leaves a deep impression on Alyosha's young heart. Alyosha spends his childhood in this "oppressive and frighteningly narrow world." In the World is the second part of Gorky's autobiographical trilogy. When Alyosha is 11, his mother dies again, and his grandfather goes bankrupt. Unable to continue living in someone else's shadow, he steps into society and earns a living independently. He works as an apprentice in a shoe store and an icon workshop, as well as a laborer in a draftsman's home and on a ship, enduring the hardships of the world. While working as a dishwasher on a ship, Alyosha meets the honest cook Smerya, and with his help, begins to read and develops a determination to pursue justice and truth. Five years later, Alyosha prepares to go to Kazan with the hope of attending university. My University is the last part of Gorky's autobiographical trilogy. The work tells of Alyosha's life in Kazan. At the age of 16, he leaves his hometown and goes to Kazan to attend university. After his dreams are shattered, he has no choice but to struggle for survival. He lives in a slum, does hard labor, associates with vagrants, and interacts with all kinds of petty bourgeoisie and intellectuals, attending a vast social university. In this university, he undergoes a complex journey of spiritual development, endures various life trials, and begins to explore the meaning of life and the complexity of the world.