The Diary of a Superfluous Man and Other Stories

Fathers and Sons stands out as a pivotal work in 19th-century literature, reflecting Turgenev's belief in the necessity for Russia to adopt Western ideals for progress. The novel explores generational conflict, particularly between traditional values and emerging nihilism, mirroring Turgenev's own opposition to serfdom and his admiration for German society. Renowned for his insightful characterizations and social commentary, Turgenev also gained recognition through his earlier work, A Sportsman's Sketches, and various short novels that delve into the complexities of human experience.