Russian Revolution

Definition

The Russian Revolution refers to a series of political upheavals in Russia during the early 20th century, primarily in 1917, which led to the overthrow of the Tsarist autocracy and the establishment of a communist government. This revolution profoundly changed Russian society and had far-reaching effects on global politics, influencing major literary figures and movements, particularly realism, as they grappled with the social and moral implications of this transformative period.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Russian Revolution occurred in two main phases: the February Revolution, which led to the abdication of Tsar Nicholas II, and the October Revolution, where the Bolsheviks took control of the government.
2. The revolution was fueled by widespread discontent among various social classes, exacerbated by military failures in World War I and severe economic hardships.
3. Major literary figures like Dostoevsky and Tolstoy produced works that explored themes of morality, suffering, and societal upheaval, which became increasingly relevant as the revolution unfolded.
4. The establishment of Soviet rule under Lenin aimed to create a classless society but led to authoritarian practices that were critiqued by many contemporary writers.
5. The Russian Revolution inspired movements around the world, influencing literary trends that sought to address social justice and human rights issues.

Review Questions

• How did the Russian Revolution influence literary themes in realism as represented by authors like Dostoevsky and Tolstoy?
  • The Russian Revolution significantly impacted realism in literature by highlighting themes of social justice, morality, and human suffering. Authors like Dostoevsky and Tolstoy had previously explored complex characters grappling with ethical dilemmas within society. As the revolution unfolded, these themes became even more pertinent as writers reflected on the upheaval and its implications for humanity. Their works often questioned the moral responsibilities of individuals within a rapidly changing society.
• In what ways did the Russian Revolution challenge the existing notions of autocracy as depicted in literary works of the time?
  • The Russian Revolution directly challenged autocratic rule by overthrowing Tsar Nicholas II and promoting ideas of equality and workers' rights. Literature from this period began to critique the oppressive nature of autocracy and highlight the struggles of ordinary people against tyrannical power. Authors illustrated characters caught between their loyalty to traditional authority and their desire for change, showcasing the deep societal rifts caused by revolutionary ideals. This shift in focus allowed writers to address broader themes of freedom and human rights.
• Evaluate how the aftermath of the Russian Revolution reshaped global literary movements and influenced contemporary literature.
  • The aftermath of the Russian Revolution reshaped global literary movements by fostering a surge of interest in socialist realism and other avant-garde styles that sought to depict everyday struggles against oppression. The revolution's ideals inspired writers worldwide to address issues related to class struggle, imperialism, and social justice through their works. This connection between literature and political ideology led to new forms of expression that challenged traditional narrative structures. Consequently, many contemporary authors drew on these themes to explore complex social dynamics in their own contexts, creating a legacy that resonates in modern literature.

Related terms

Bolsheviks: A faction of the Marxist Russian Social Democratic Labor Party that, led by Vladimir Lenin, seized power during the October Revolution and established a one-party state.

Proletariat: The working class in capitalist societies, whose struggles for rights and representation were central themes in realist literature during and after the Russian Revolution.

Autocracy: A system of government in which a single person, often a monarch, holds absolute power, which was the system overthrown during the Russian Revolution.