The comedy was written by D. I. Fonvizin in 1781. The main problem of the work is the condemnation of the traditional upbringing of the nobles, in particular the provincial ones, their stupidity and malevolence. The play "Undergrowth" was written in a classic style, which was reflected in the "speaking" names of the characters, a clear division into positive and negative characters, as well as in the unity of time, place and action: the events take place within 2 days, in the village of Prostakov. The name "Undergrowth" is associated with the decree of Peter I, which forbade unlearned nobles to serve and marry, calling such young people "undergrowth".
For a general acquaintance with the plot of the work, we offer a summary of "Undergrowth".
Main characters
Mrs. Prostakova- Prostakov's wife. An active, rude, uneducated woman who thinks more about her own gain than about people around and virtue, tries to solve everything by force or cunning.
Prostakov Mitrofan- the son of the Prostakovs, an undergrowth, a young man of 16 years old, as stupid as his parents, completely weak-willed, agrees to everything that his mother or others say (in the end, he immediately agrees to join the army).
Pravdin- the guest of the Prostakovs, a government official who came to deal with the disorders in their estate, to resolve the issue of Prostakov's cruelty towards the servants. A highly moral person, a representative of the "new" educated nobility, personifies the truth and the word of the law in the work "Undergrowth".
Starodum- a person with high moral principles, who achieved everything in his life himself, without resorting to deceit or cunning. Sophia's uncle and guardian.
Sofia- an honest, educated, kind girl. After she lost her parents, she lives with the Prostakovs, in love with Milon.
Milon- Sophia's fiancé, whom they had not seen for several years. The officer, who was distinguished in the service by courage and courage, has high concepts of human virtue and honor.
Skotinin- the brother of Mrs. Prostakova. A stupid, uneducated man, looking for profit in everything, easily lies and flatters for the sake of profit.
Other characters
Prostakov- Prostakova's husband. Virtually nothing decides in the house, in fact the shadow and henpecked wife, uneducated, weak-willed.
Eremeevna Mitrofan's nanny.
Kuteikin(a seminarian who himself stopped studying halfway, because he did not master science, cunning and greedy, a grammar teacher), Vralman(the former groom of Starodum, simple, but able to skillfully deceive - called himself a German teacher of secular life), Tsyfirkin(retired sergeant, honest man, arithmetic teacher) - Mitrofan's teacher.
Trishka- tailor, Prostakov's servant.
Action 1
The play begins with Mrs. Prostakova scolding Trishka that he made a bad caftan for Mitrofan, although he warned about his inability to sew. Prostakov agrees with his wife. The woman decides to punish the tailor. Skotinin claims that the caftan is sewn well and Trishka is kicked out.
There is a conversation about Mitrofan - he must have fallen ill, because he did not sleep well all night. During the discussion, the son claims that he did not eat at all, but in fact he had a hearty supper all night drinking kvass, and at night he saw that his mother was beating his father. To this, Prostakova hugs her son, saying that he is her only consolation and Mitrofan runs away to the dovecote.
Skotinin, Prostakova and Prostakov are discussing that they want to give the orphan Sofya for Skotinin. The only relative of the girl, Starodum, left for Siberia long ago and did not remind of himself. The conversation reveals the self-serving, evil personality of Skotinin, who likes not Sofya but the many pigs in her villages.
Sophia brings a letter from Starodum who suddenly appeared. The Prostakovs do not believe that he is alive, they try to talk the girl into thinking that this is actually a letter from a fan. When Sophia invites them to read for themselves, it turns out that everyone is illiterate.
Pravdin enters, who is instructed to read the letter. Those present will learn that Starodum made Sophia the heiress of 10 thousand rubles. Now not only Skotinin wants to marry the girl, but Prostakova also begins to flatter the girl, wanting to pass her off as Mitrofan. As the women leave, a servant runs in and informs the men that passing soldiers have stopped in their village.
Action 2
Milon and Pravdin turn out to be old friends. Pravdin says that he came to the village to put in place the "despicable fury" Prostakov. Milon shares that he is going to Moscow to meet his beloved, whom he has not seen for a long time, since after the death of her parents, distant relatives took care of her.
By chance, Sophia passes by. The lovers are happy for each other. Sophia tells Milon that Prostakova wants to marry her to her stupid 16-year-old son.
Immediately they meet Skotinin, who is worried that he can go home without his wife and money. Pravdin and Milon urge him to quarrel with his sister, saying that she plays with them like a ball. Skotinin loses his temper.
Mitrofan and Yeremeevna are passing by. The nanny tries to force the young man to study, but he does not want to. Skotinin quarrel with Mitrofan about the upcoming marriage, since both do not mind marrying Sophia. However, Eremeevna and Pravdin do not allow them to fight. Skotinin angry leaves.
The Prostakov spouses appear. Prostakova flatters Milon and apologizes for not coming out to meet him in time. Praises Sophia and tells how she has already arranged everything for her uncle. The girl and Prostakov leave to look at the room. They are replaced by Kuteikin and Tsyfirkin. The teachers tell Pravdin about themselves, how they learned to read and write, and how they ended up in the Prostakovs' house.
Action 3
Pravdin, seeing Starodum's carriage from the window, went out to meet him first. The official talks about the atrocities of the Prostakovs in relation to Sonya. Starodum says that one cannot act on the first impulse, since experience has shown him that ardor is not always good, tells Pravdin about his life, as he saw that people are different.
This is where Sophia comes in. Starodum recognizes his niece, they are happy to meet. Uncle says that he left everything and left, because otherwise he could not earn money without “exchanging it for his conscience”.
At this time, Prostakova and Skotinin managed to fight. After they were pacified by Milon, Prostakova notices Starodum and orders Eremeevna to call her son and husband. The entire Prostakov family and Skotinin greet Starodum with excessive joy, hug and flatter in every possible way. Mitrofan repeats after his mother that Starodum is his second father. This surprises Uncle Sophia very much.
Starodum says that he is taking the girl to Moscow to marry. Sophia, not knowing that her uncle chose Milon as her husband, nevertheless agrees with his will. Prostakova and Skotinin are trying to convince him. The woman says that studies were not held in high esteem in their family, but Mitrofan allegedly does not get up because of the book and studies hard. Pravdin interrupts the woman, saying that the guest is tired from the road and everyone disperses.
Tsyfirkin and Kuteikin remain, who complain to each other that Mitrofan cannot learn arithmetic and four years of reading and writing. They blame the German Vralman for that, who interferes with the teaching, and both are not opposed to beating the unfortunate student, if only he would start doing something.
Mitrofan and Prostakova enter. The woman persuades her son to learn, at least for the sake of it. Tsifirkin sets two tasks, but in both cases, before Mitrofan counts, Prostakova solves them based on her personal experience: “I found the money, don’t share it with anyone. Take everything for yourself, Mitrofanushka. Don't study this stupid science." Only Kuteikin begins to teach the young man to read and write, when Vralman appears and says that Mitrofan does not need to learn to read and write, and in general it is better to make friends with “his own”, illiterate people, in which Prostakova supports him. Vralman makes a reservation that he saw the light while sitting on a cab, but he catches himself in time and the woman does not notice that he is lying to her.
Prostakova and Mitrofan leave. The teachers are arguing. Tsyfirkin and Kuteikin want to beat Vralman, but he runs away.
Action 4
Starodum and Sofya are talking about virtue, about how people go astray from the righteous path. The uncle explains to his niece that nobility and wealth should be calculated not by deeds for their own benefit, but by deeds for the fatherland and other people. The man explains that the position should correspond to the deeds, and not to one title. He also speaks about family life, that a husband and wife should understand each other, support that the origin of the spouses is not important, if they love each other, but this love should be friendly.
Here Starodum is brought a letter from which he learns that the young man for whom he was going to marry Sophia is Milon. Starodum, talking with Milon, learns that he is a man with high concepts of duty and honor. The uncle blesses the niece and the young man.
Skotinin tears them away from the conversation, trying to show himself in a favorable light, but only makes them laugh with his absurdity. Pravdin, Prostakova and Mitrofan arrive. The woman again praises her son's literacy. Pravdin decides to check. Mitrofan does not give a single correct answer, while his mother tries in every possible way to justify his stupidity.
Prostakova and Skotinin continue to ask Starodum who he will choose for his niece, to which they receive an answer that she already has a fiancé and they are leaving tomorrow morning. Skotinin and Mitrofan with Prostakova separately plan to intercept the girl on the road.
Action 5
Pravdin and Starodum are discussing what everyone will soon find out that without truth and good manners it is impossible to achieve something worthwhile, that the guarantee of the welfare of the state is worthy, honest, educated, well-mannered people.
They are interrupted upon hearing a noise. As it turns out, Yeremeevna wanted to take Sophia away by force on Prostakova’s orders, but Milon prevented her. Pravdin says that this is an illegal action. He points out that the girl's uncle and fiancé can accuse the Prostakovs of a crime and demand immediate punishment. The woman tries to beg forgiveness from Sophia, she forgives her. Prostakova, only she is released from guilt, is going to punish the servants who did not allow the atrocity to take place and missed the girl. However, Pravdin stops her - he reads out a paper that came from the government that from that moment the house and villages of the Prostakovs come under his care. Prostakova is indignant and asks for at least three days, but Pravdin refuses. Then the woman recalls the debts to the teachers and Pravdin agrees to pay them off himself.
Vralman, Kuteikin and Tsyfirkin arrive. Vralman's deceit is revealed - that he is in fact a retired groom of Starodum, and not a German teacher and connoisseur of high society. Vralman agrees to go to the service of Starodum again. Tsyfirkin does not want to take extra money from Prostakova, since for all the time he could not teach Mitrofan anything. Pravdin, Starodum and Milon reward Tsyfirkin for honesty. Kuteikin is not against getting money even for fruitless science, but he is left with nothing.
Starodum, Milon and Sophia are going to leave. Mitrofan tells his mother to get rid of him, his father reproaches him for this. Pravdin offers the young man to go to serve and he agrees. Prostakova is in despair, as she has lost everything. Starodum sums up what happened: "Here are worthy fruits of evil-mindedness!"
Conclusion
The comedy "Undergrowth" by Fonvizin is a landmark work of the 18th century, which exposed the acute issues of that time. The play contrasts education, upbringing, high moral principles with stupidity, ignorance, anger and waywardness. The subtle humor of the writer, his understanding of global human problems allows even today to read the classic comedy. We advise you not only to read the retelling of the "Undergrowth" by actions, but also to evaluate the work in full.
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Denis Fonvizin's immortal comedy "Undergrowth" is an outstanding work of Russian literature of the 18th century. Bold satire and truthfully described reality are the main components of the skill of this writer. Centuries later, heated debates about the protagonist of the play, Mitrofanushka, emerge in modern society every now and then. Who is he: a victim of improper upbringing or a vivid example of the moral decay of society?
The comedy "The Brigadier" written by Fonvizin, which had a stunning success in St. Petersburg, became the basis of one of the world's greatest literary monuments. After its publication, the writer did not return to dramaturgy for more than ten years, more and more devoting himself to state issues and tasks. However, the idea of creating a new book excited the author's imagination. Let's not hide the fact that, according to scientists, the first note related to the "Undergrowth" was started back in the 1770s, long before its publication.
After a trip to France in 1778. the playwright had an exact plan for writing the future work. An interesting fact is that initially Mitrofanushka was Ivanushka, which by itself spoke of the similarity of the two comedies (Ivan was a character in The Brigadier). In 1781 the play was completed. Of course, staging this type meant highlighting one of the most problematic issues of the noble society of that time. However, despite the risk, Fonvizin became the direct "instigator" of the literary revolution. The premiere was postponed due to the empress's dislike for any satire, but it nevertheless took place on September 24, 1782.
Genre of the work
COMEDY is a type of drama in which a moment of effective conflict is specifically resolved. It has a number of features:
- does not entail the death of one representative from the warring parties;
- aimed at "nothing carrying" goals;
- The story is lively and vivid.
Also in the work of Fonvizin, a satirical orientation is obvious. This means that the author set himself the task of ridiculing social vices. This is an attempt to disguise life's problems under the guise of a smile.
"Undergrowth" is a work built according to the laws of classicism. One storyline, one place of action, and all events take place within a day. However, this concept is also consistent with realism, as evidenced by individual objects and places of action. In addition, the characters very much resemble real landowners from the hinterland, ridiculed and condemned by the playwright. Fonvizin added something new to classicism - merciless and sharp humor.
What is the piece about?
The plot of Denis Fonvizin's comedy "Undergrowth" revolves around a family of landowners, which is completely mired in immorality and tyranny. Children became like rude and limited parents, from which their idea of morality suffered. Sixteen-year-old Mitrofanushka is struggling to finish his studies, but he lacks the desire and ability. The mother looks at it through her sleeves, she does not care if her son develops. She prefers everything to remain as it is, any progress is alien to her.
The Prostakovs “sheltered” a distant relative, the orphan Sophia, who differs from the whole family not only in her outlook on life, but also in her good manners. Sophia is the heiress of a large estate, which Mitrofanushka's uncle, Skotinin, who is a great hunter, “looks at” as well. Marriage is the only available way to take possession of Sophia's household, so the relatives surrounding her are trying to persuade her to a profitable marriage.
Starodum - Sophia's uncle, sends a letter to his niece. Prostakova is terribly unhappy with such a "trick" of a relative who was considered dead in Siberia. The deceit and arrogance inherent in her nature is manifested in the accusation of a "fraudulent" letter, allegedly "amorous". Illiterate landowners will soon find out the true content of the message, resorting to the help of the guest Pravdin. He reveals to the whole family the truth about the left Siberian inheritance, which gives as much as ten thousand annual income.
It was then that Prostakova came up with an idea - to marry Sophia to Mitrofanushka in order to appropriate the inheritance for herself. However, officer Milon "breaks into" her plans, walking through the village with soldiers. He met with an old friend, Pravdin, who, as it turned out, was a member of the governor's board. His plans include watching the landowners mistreating their people.
Milon talks about his long-standing love for a sweet lady who was transported to an unknown place due to the death of a relative. Suddenly he meets Sophia - she is the same girl. The heroine talks about her future marriage with the undersized Mitrofanushka, from which the groom “flashes” like a spark, but then gradually “weakens” with a detailed story about the “betrothed”.
Sophia's uncle arrived. Having met Milon, he accepts Sophia's choice, while inquiring about the "correctness" of her decision. At the same time, the Prostakovs' estate was transferred to state custody due to the cruel treatment of the peasants. Looking for support, the mother hugs Mitrofanushka. But the Son did not intend to be courteous and polite, he is rude, which makes the venerable matron faint. Waking up, she wails: "I died completely." And Starodum, pointing to her, says "Here are worthy fruits of evil-mindedness!".
Main characters and their characteristics
Pravdin, Sofya, Starodum and Milon are representatives of the so-called "new" time, the Enlightenment. The moral components of their souls are nothing but goodness, love, craving for knowledge and compassion. The Prostakovs, Skotinin and Mitrofan are representatives of the "old" nobility, where the cult of material well-being, rudeness and ignorance flourish.
- The minor Mitrofan is a young man whose ignorance, stupidity and inability to adequately analyze the situation do not allow him to become an active and reasonable representative of the noble community. “I don’t want to study, but I want to get married” is a life motto that fully reflects the character of a young man who does not take anything seriously.
- Sophia is an educated, kind girl who becomes a black sheep in a society of envious and greedy people.
- Prostakova is a cunning, careless, rude woman with many flaws and a lack of love and respect for all living things, except for her beloved son Mitrofanushka. The upbringing of Prostakova is only a confirmation of the persistence of conservatism, which does not allow the development of the Russian nobility.
- Starodum brings up "his little blood" in a different way - Sophia for him is no longer a small child, but a formed member of society. He gives the girl freedom of choice, thereby teaching her the right basics of life. In it, Fonvizin portrays the type of personality that has gone through all the “ups and downs”, while becoming not only a “worthy parent”, but also an undoubted example for the future generation.
- Skotinin - just like everyone else, is an example of a "speaking surname." A person whose inner essence is more like some rough, uncouth cattle than a well-mannered person.
Theme of the work
- The upbringing of the "new" nobility is the main theme of the comedy. “Undergrowth” is a kind of allusion to the “disappearing” moral principles in people who are afraid of transformation. The landowners bring up their offspring in the old fashioned way, without paying due attention to their education. But those who were not taught, but only spoiled or intimidated, will not be able to take care of either their families or Russia.
- Family theme. The family is a social institution on which the development of the individual depends. Despite Prostakova's rudeness and disrespect towards all residents, she cherishes her beloved son, who does not at all appreciate her care or her love. Such behavior is a typical example of ingratitude, which is a consequence of spoiled and parental adoration. The landowner does not understand that her son sees her treatment of other people and repeats exactly that. So, the weather in the house determines the character of the young man and his shortcomings. Fonvizin emphasizes the importance of maintaining warmth, tenderness and respect in the family towards all its members. Only then will children be respectful and parents worthy of respect.
- The theme of freedom of choice. The "new" stage is Starodum's relationship with Sophia. Starodum gives her freedom of choice, not limiting her to her beliefs, which can affect her worldview, thereby educating her in the ideal of a noble future.
Main problems
- The main problem of the work is the consequences of improper upbringing. The Prostakov family is a family tree that has its roots in the distant past of the nobility. This is what the landlords boast about, not realizing that the glory of their ancestors does not add to their dignity. But class pride clouded their minds, they do not want to move forward and achieve new achievements, they think that everything will always be the same as before. That is why they do not realize the need for education; in their world enslaved by stereotypes, it is really not needed. Mitrofanushka will also sit all his life in the village and live off the labor of his serfs.
- The problem of serfdom. The moral and intellectual decay of the nobility under serfdom is an absolutely logical result of the unjust policy of the tsar. The landlords are completely lazy, they do not need to work to provide for themselves. Managers and peasants will do everything for them. With such a social structure, the nobles have no incentive to work and get an education.
- The problem of greed. The thirst for material well-being blocks access to morality. The Prostakovs are obsessed with money and power, they don’t care if their child is happy, for them happiness is a synonym for wealth.
- The problem of ignorance. Stupidity deprives the heroes of spirituality, their world is too limited and tied to the material side of life. They are not interested in anything but primitive physical pleasures, because they do not know anything else at all. Fonvizin saw the true "human appearance" only in the person who was brought up by literate people, and not by half-educated deacons.
comedy idea
Fonvizin was a personality, therefore he did not accept rudeness, ignorance and cruelty. He professed the belief that a person is born with a “clean slate”, therefore only upbringing and education can make him a moral, virtuous and intelligent citizen who will benefit the fatherland. Thus, the chanting of the ideals of humanism is the main idea of The Undergrowth. A young man who obeys the call of goodness, intelligence and justice - that's a true nobleman! If he is brought up in the spirit of Prostakova, then he will never go beyond the narrow limits of his limitations and will not understand the beauty and versatility of the world in which he lives. He will not be able to work for the good of society and will not leave anything significant behind him.
At the end of the comedy, the author speaks of the triumph of "retribution": Prostakova loses the estate and the respect of her own son, who was brought up in accordance with her spiritual and physical ideals. This is the price of wrong education and ignorance.
What does it teach?
Comedy Denis Fonvizin "Undergrowth", above all, teaches respect for others. The sixteen-year-old youth Mitrofanushka did not take care of either his mother or his uncle at all, he considered this a self-evident fact: “Why did you overeat henbane, uncle? Yes, I don’t know why you deigned to jump on me. The logical result of rough treatment in the house is the finale, where the son pushes away the loving mother.
The lessons of the comedy "Undergrowth" do not end there. Not so much respect as ignorance shows people in a position that they carefully try to hide. Stupidity and ignorance hover in comedy, like a bird over a nest, they envelop the village, thereby not releasing the inhabitants from their own shackles. The author severely punishes the Prostakovs for their narrow-mindedness, depriving them of their property and the very opportunity to continue their idle lifestyle. Thus, everyone needs to learn, because even the most stable position in society is easy to lose, being an uneducated person.
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Comedy idea "Undergrowth" originated with Denis Fonvizin in 1778, and four years later he presented the play to his friends. But the path of the work to the stage turned out to be thorny. In St. Petersburg and Moscow, the comedy was immediately refused to be staged. The censors were afraid of some bold remarks.
In September 1782, the Free Russian Theater on Tsaritsyn Meadow ventured to stage the play. The success was stunning. True, this courage cost the theater to close, but it was too late - Fonvizin's comedy gained immense popularity. Since then, the play has not left the stage.
"Undergrowth" caused serious dissatisfaction with Catherine II. Fonvizin was not allowed to publish any more works, even a translation into Russian of the works of the Roman historian Tacitus.
The name of the comedy is associated with the decree of Peter I, according to which the children of nobles who have not received an education do not have the right to serve and marry. Such young people were called "undergrowths". It was believed that they were not ready for adult conscious life.
Main problems, which the author raises in the comedy: the vicious education and decomposition of the nobility in the conditions of the serfdom. Education, according to Fonvizin, determines the moral character of the younger generation. Entrusting their children to illiterate serf nannies, half-educated sextons and dubious foreigners, the nobility plunges into the abyss of ignorance, stupidity, money-grubbing and immorality. The Skotinins and Prostakovs are only capable of bringing up Mitrofanushki.
Fonvizin, using simple examples, shows that the landowners for the most part have forgotten not only the honor of the nobility, but even human dignity. Instead of serving the interests of the country, they do not comply with either moral or state laws.
The special poignancy of the comedy is given by the accidental victory of the forces of good. If Pravdin had not received an order to take custody of the Prostakovs' property, and Starodum had not returned from Siberia in time, everything could not have ended so happily.
The comedy "Undergrowth" is built according to the laws classicism. There is only one storyline, one place of action and all events take place within a day. But the play also shows some features. realism: a reliable depiction of everyday life, characters far from sketchiness, individual elements of the drama. Fonvizin created a new genre- socio-political comedy. In the center of the plot, contrary to the canons of classicism, there is not a love affair, but an acute social conflict.
The play consists of five acts. In the first, the author introduces us to the main characters, the plot starts - a letter from Starodum, in which Sophia is called a rich heiress. The climax comes in the fifth act, when Pravdin reads out a letter about the transfer of the Prostakov estate under his care. The denouement is the last words of the Starodum: “Here are worthy fruits of evil-mindedness!”
In "Undergrowth" almost all classes of the Russian state are shown. There are serfs Trishka, Palashka and Eremeevna, landowners Prostakov and Skotinin, officer Milon and retired sergeant Tsyfirkin, official Pravdin, clergyman Kuteikin. According to the traditions of classicism, all the characters are clearly divided into negative and positive, and their names indicate the main character traits. Pravdin personifies justice, Starodum - wisdom and morality, and the names Vralman and Skotinin are understandable even to a child.
The negative and positive characters of the comedy are created by pairs of antagonists: "children" - Mitrofan and Sophia, "grooms" - Skotinin and Milon, "main" - Prostakova and Starodum, "assistant chief" - Prostakov and Pravdin, "teachers" - disinterested Tsyfirkin and greedy Kuteikin.
Mrs. Prostakova is the most striking comedic image. The vicious, cunning, impudent and extremely active landowner constantly swears and beats the servants. Prostakova strives to take everything into her own hands, she has sole control over not only serfs, but also relatives. Her husband is a powerless creature who does not dare to take a step without the order of his wife. Prostakova extends her power to everyone who does not have the strength to fight back: Sofya, Skotinin, teachers. The main motto of the landowner: "Whatever I want, I'll put it on my own".
The heroine blindly loves her only son and is ready for anything for his good. Prostakova rushes with her fists at her brother, protecting Mitrofanushka, making sure that the “child” eats well and does not bother with the sciences. She takes all decisions for her son, protects him from the slightest trouble, crippling the fate of the young man.
With such an upbringing, it is not at all surprising that the son grows up as a coward, a loafer, a glutton and a boor. Mitrofan's ignorance and stupidity make him horrified through laughter: what is the future of a country where such a generation is growing up? At the same time, the “undergrowth” is smart enough to manipulate his despotic mother and arouse the tenderness of his father. He, like his mother, understands only the power of the strong, he can pretend to be kind, well-mannered, loving, grateful. But only Prostakova loses her power, her beloved son roughly pushes her away.
Against the background of vivid images of negative characters, positive Starodum, Pravdin, Milon, Sophia look pale and expressionless. But they are necessary for the development of the plot, the dynamics of events. At the same time, these actors speak on behalf of the author himself. Their instructive conversations show the right path of an honest man, explain the true duties of a nobleman and the rules of family morality.
The contrast between the world of Prostakova and Starodum is most clearly seen in their attitude to education. The landowner herself cannot read and says to her son: "Don't learn that stupid science!" Starodum received an excellent education and calls education "guarantee of the welfare of the state".
Fonvizin is a great master of words. Each of his characters has its own linguistic characteristics. Prostakova pours out rude and vulgar expressions. Starodum, Sofya, Pravdin speak freely and beautifully. The speech of Mitrofan and Skotinin, like the speech of the serfs, is poor, primitive. Kuteikin's vocabulary is rich in Church Slavonic words, and retired sergeant Tsyfirkin flaunts military jargon. The illiteracy of the German Vralman is conveyed by his characteristic tongue-tied tongue.
The same and both Prostakovs.
Ms. Prostakova(husband, go). There is nothing to override here. All your life, sir, you walk with your ears hanging out.
Prostakov. Yes, he himself and Pravdin have disappeared from my eyes. What am I to blame?
Ms. Prostakova(to Milo). A! my dad! Mister officer! I have now been looking for you all over the village; she knocked her husband down to bring you, father, the lowest thanksgiving for a good command.
Milo. For what, ma'am?
Ms Prostakova. Why, my father! The soldiers are so kind. So far, no one has touched the hair. Do not be angry, my father, that my freak missed you. Otrodu does not make sense to treat anyone. I was born so rotten, my father.
Milo. I don't blame you at all, ma'am.
Ms Prostakova. On him, my father, he finds such, in a local way, tetanus. Sometimes a bulging eye is worth an hour, as if rooted to the spot. I didn't do anything with him; What could he not stand for me! You won't get through anything. If the tetanus goes away, then, my father, it will bring such game that you ask God for tetanus again.
Pravdin. At least, ma'am, you can't complain about his wicked temper. He is humble. ..
Ms Prostakova. Like a calf, my father, that's why everything in our house is spoiled. After all, it does not make sense for him to have strictness in the house in order to punish the guilty by way. I manage everything myself, father. From morning to evening, as if hanged by the tongue, I don’t lay my hands on it: either I scold, or I fight; That's how the house is kept, my father!
Pravdin(to the side). Soon it will be different.
Mitrofan. And today my mother deigned to be busy with the servants all morning.
Ms. Prostakova(to Sophia). Cleaned up the rooms for your kind uncle. I'm dying, I want to see this respectable old man. I heard a lot about him. And his villains only say that he is a little gloomy, and that he is so prejudiced, and if he loves someone, he will love him directly.
Pravdin. And whoever he does not love is a bad person. (To Sofya.) I myself have the honor of knowing your uncle. And besides, from many I heard things about him that inspired true reverence for him in my soul. What is called in him sullenness, rudeness, that is, one action of his straightforwardness. From his birth, his tongue did not say "yes" when his soul felt "no."
Sophia. But he had to get his happiness by labor.
Ms Prostakova. God's grace to us, we succeeded. I want nothing so much as his paternal mercy to Mitrofanushka. Sofyushka, my soul! Would you like to see Uncle's room?
Sophia leaves.
Ms Prostakova. I gaped again, my father; Yes, if you please, sir, to see her off. The legs didn't come off.
Prostakov(departing). They didn’t withdraw, but they buckled.
Ms. Prostakova(to guests). My only concern, my only joy is Mitrofanushka. My age is passing. I cook it for people.
Here appear Kuteikin with a book of hours, and Tsyfirkin with a slate and slate. Both of them make signs and ask Eremeevna: should I enter? She beckons them, but Mitrofan waves them off.
Ms. Prostakova(not seeing them, continues). Perhaps the Lord is merciful, and happiness is written for his family.
Pravdin. Look around, ma'am, what's going on behind you!
Ms Prostakova. A! This, father, is Mitrofanushka's teachers, Sidorych Kuteikin...
Eremeevna. And Pafnutich Tsyfirkin.
Mitrofan(to the side). Shoot them and take them with Eremeevna.
Kuteikin. Peace to the master's house and many years from children and households. Tsyfirkin. We wish your honor a hundred years, yes twenty, and even fifteen, countless years.
Milo. Ba! This is our soldier brother! Where did it come from, my friend?
Tsyfirkin. There was a garrison, your honor! And now he's gone clean.
Milo. What are you eating?
Tsyfirkin. Somehow, your honor! A little bit of passion fruit arithmetic, so I eat in the city near the clerks at the accounting department. The Lord has not revealed science to everyone: so whoever does not understand himself hires me either to believe the account, or to sum up the results. That's what I eat; I do not like to live idly. In my spare time, I teach children. Here, for the third year, their nobility and the guy have been fighting over broken lines, but something is not glued well; Ah and the truth, man on man not comes.
Ms Prostakova. What? What are you, Pafnutich, lying? I didn't listen.
Tsyfirkin. So. I reported to his nobility that in ten years you cannot hammer into another stump what another catches in flight.
Pravdin(to Kuteikin). And you, Mr. Kuteikin, aren't you one of the scientists? Kuteikin. From scientists, your highness! Seminaries of the local diocese. I went to rhetoric, but God willing, I turned back. He submitted a petition to the consistory, in which he wrote: "Such and such a seminarian, from church children, fearing the abyss of wisdom, asks her to be dismissed." To which a gracious resolution soon followed, with the note: "Suit such and such a seminarian from any teaching: it is written for there is, do not cast pearls before pigs, but they will not trample him underfoot."
Ms Prostakova. Where is our Adam Adamych?
Eremeevna. I was pushed towards him, but by force I carried my legs away. Smoke pillar, my mother! Strangled, damned, with tobacco. Such a sinner.
Kuteikin. Empty, Eremeevna! There is no sin in smoking tobacco.
Pravdin(to the side). Kuteikin is also smart!
Kuteikin. In many books it is allowed: in the psalter it is printed: "And cereal for the service of man."
Pravdin. Well, where else?
Kuteikin. And the same thing is printed in another psalter. Our archpriest has a small one in an octagon, and in the same one.
Pravdin(to Mrs. Prostakova). I don't want to interfere with your son's exercises; obedient servant.
Milo. Not me, sir.
Ms Prostakova. Where are you, my lords?
Pravdin. I will take him to my room. Friends, having not seen each other for a long time, have a lot to talk about.
Ms Prostakova. And where would you like to eat, with us or in your room? We just have our own family at the table, with Sofyushka ...
Milo. With you, with you, ma'am.
Pravdin. We will both have this honor.
The village of landowners Prostakovs. Mrs. Prostakova is angry: the serf tailor Trishka, she believes, sewed a too narrow caftan for her beloved son, the sixteen-year-old underage Mitrofanushka. Trishka justifies herself by saying that she did not learn tailoring, but the lady does not want to listen to anything. Her husband, Prostakov, a narrow-minded and obedient man to his wife, expresses the opinion that the caftan is baggy. And it seems to Taras Skotinin, Prostakova's brother, that the caftan is "quite well sewn."
The caftan itself is a new thing for Mitrofanushka to collude with Skotinin and Sophia, a distant relative of the Prostakovs. Sophia's father died when she was still a baby. The girl grew up with her mother in Moscow. But six months have already passed since she remained an orphan. The Prostakovs took her in to "supervise her estate as if it were their own." Sophia's uncle, Starodum, left for Siberia. For a long time there was no news about him, and the Prostakovs believe that he died long ago.
Skotinin wants to marry Sofya - not because he likes the girl, not because he wants to take possession of her villages, but because there are a lot of ... pigs in these villages, and he is a big hunter before them. But Sophia still does not know who is predicted for her husband.
Sophia receives a letter from Starodum. Mrs. Prostakova, having heard about this, is extremely annoyed: her hopes did not come true, her uncle turned out to be alive. Prostakova accuses Sofya of lying: the letter, they say, is amorous. But she cannot verify the statement, because she is illiterate. Her husband and brother are also not much of a reader. They are rescued by the guest Pravdin. He reads a letter in which Starodum informs his niece that he makes her the heiress of his fortune, acquired by him in Siberia, which gives an income of ten thousand a year. Mrs. Prostakova is amazed by this news. She has a new idea: to give Sophia as her son, the ignorant Mitrofan.
Soldiers pass through the village of Prostakov. They are led by officer Milon. He meets here his old friend, Pravdin. He says that he is a member of the governor's board. Pravdin travels around the district and especially pays attention to the "evil-tempered ignoramuses" who mistreat their people. It was precisely such ignoramuses that he found in the person of the Prostakovs.
Milon, on the other hand, says that he is in love and has been separated from his beloved for more than six months. Recently, he learned that his beloved was left an orphan and some distant relatives took her to their villages ... At the moment when Milon talks about this, he suddenly sees his beloved - this is Sophia.
The lovers are happy to meet. But Sophia says that Mrs. Prostakova wants to marry her to Mitrofanushka. Milon is tormented by jealousy. True, she weakens when he learns more about his "rival".
Skotinin, passing by, unceremoniously declares his views on Sophia. Pravdin tells him about Mrs. Prostakova's plans. Skotinin is furious. Mitrofan catches his eye, being led to study by his nanny Eremeevna. The uncle wants to explain himself to his nephew and was already attacking him with his fists. But Yeremeyevna shields Mitrofanushka with her body and drives Skotinin away.
Mitrofanushka's teachers come: Sidorych - Kuteikin and Pafnutich - Tsyfirkin. Kuteikin, a deacon from Pokrov, who did not finish his studies at the seminary, teaches Mitrofan to read and write according to the Book of Hours and the Psalter. And Tsyfirkin, a retired sergeant, is a teacher of arithmetic.
Mitrofan refuses to study. He complains to his mother that after his uncle's "task" learning does not come to his mind. Eremeevna tells about the collision with Skotinin. Prostakova comforts her son, promises to marry him soon. She orders the teachers to be fed dinner and sent again. The lady is dissatisfied with Eremeevna: she “did not bite into Skotinin’s mug” and “did not pull his snout up to his ears.” Prostakova is going to “transfer” with her brother in her own way. Zealous Eremeyevna cries out of resentment. The teachers console her.
Starodum arrives. Before showing himself to the owners, he talks with an old acquaintance, Pravdin. Starodum recalls his father, who served Peter the Great, praises those times. Starodum came to free his niece from "ignoramuses without a soul." He was forced to leave the public service. When Starodum was still serving in the military, he became friends with the young count. Upon the declaration of war, Starodum hurried to the army, and the count evaded this. And soon after that, the count was promoted to the rank, and Starodum, wounded in the war, was bypassed. After retiring, Starodum came to St. Petersburg to the court. But later he decided that "it is better to lead a life at home than in someone else's front."
Starodum meets Sofya and promises to take his niece away from the Prostakovs. The conversation was interrupted by the appearance of Prostakova and Skotinin. Sister and brother fight, and Milon separates them. This scene amuses the old-timer. Mrs. Prostakova is annoyed by the stranger's fun, but, having learned that this is Starodum, she changes her tone to the most servile and obsequious. She wants to seduce herself to a wealthy relative and contribute to the marriage of Mitrofanushka to Sophia.
But Starodum promises to take Sophia to Moscow the very next morning in order to marry her there to some "young man of great merit." This news plunges everyone into despondency, and Sophia "seems amazed." Then Starodum tells her that the choice of a worthy groom is entirely in her will. It brings hope back to everyone. Mrs. Prostakova boasts before Starodum about the formation of Mitrofanushka. She is especially pleased with the German Adam Adamych Vralman, whom she hired for five years. She pays him three hundred rubles a year (other teachers - ten). Vralman teaches Mitrofan "in French and all sciences." But the main thing is that he "does not captivate the child."
Meanwhile, Kuteikin and Tsyfirkin are sad that the exercise is not going very well. Mitrofan has been studying arithmetic for the third year, but "he can't count three." He has been studying the diploma for the fourth year, and still “he won’t make out a new line.” And the whole trouble is that Vralman indulges a lazy student and interferes with his studies.
Mrs. Prostakova persuades her son to learn. He demands that there be an agreement as soon as possible: “I don’t want to study, I want to get married.” Tsyfirkin sets two tasks for Mitrofan. But the mother intervenes and does not allow them to be solved. In general, arithmetic seems to her an empty science: “There is no money - what to count? There is money - we will consider it good even without Pafnutich. Tsyfirkin has to finish the lesson. His place is taken by Kuteikin. Mitrofan senselessly repeats after him lines from the Book of Hours. Here comes Vralman. He explains to Mrs. Prostakova that it is very dangerous to stuff your head too much. Vralman believes that one can do without Russian literacy and arithmetic. Mitrofanushka, he says, only needs to know how to live in the world. Vralman lets Mitrofan frolic.
Tsyfirkin and Kuteikin want to beat Vralman. The retired sergeant brandishes the board, and the sexton - the Book of Hours, but the German manages to escape.
Sophia is reading Fenelon's book on the upbringing of girls. Starodum talks with her about virtue. He receives a letter from the Count of Chestan. This is Uncle Milon, who wants to marry his nephew to Sophia. Talking to Sophia about her marriage, Starodum again notices that she is embarrassed ... Then Pravdin and Milon appear. Pravdin introduces Milon to Starodum. It turns out that Milon in Moscow often visited the house of Sophia's mother, and she loved him like a son. Starodum, talking with Milon, is convinced that he is dealing with a worthy person. Milon asks for Sophia's hand, mentioning his "mutual inclination" with the girl. Starodum is happy to learn that Sophia has chosen exactly the one whom he himself reads to her as her husband. He agrees to this marriage.
But other contenders for Sophia's hand know nothing and do not leave their hopes. Skotinin begins to talk about the antiquity of his kind. Starodum jokingly pretends to agree with him on everything. Mrs. Prostakova invites Starodum to see how Mitrofanushka is learned. Sofya's uncle pretends to be delighted with Mitrofanushka's learning. However, he refuses both Skotinin and Mitrofanushka, saying that Sophia has already been agreed. He announces that he will leave with Sophia at seven in the morning. But Mrs. Prostakova decides that before that time she will have time to "put on her own." She places sentries around the house.
Pravdin receives a package; he is ordered to take custody of the house and villages of the Prostakovs at the first occasion when Prostakov's temper threatens the safety of the people subject to her. Pravdin tells Starodum about this. Their conversation is interrupted by noise...
Prostakova's people are dragging the resisting Sophia to the carriage - to marry Mitrofanushka. Milon, who caught this scene, frees the bride. Pravdin threatens that Prostakova will be brought to trial as a "violator of civil peace." Mrs. Prostakova violently repents of her act. Starodum and Sophia forgive her. Prostakova is glad for forgiveness: now she will take revenge on her servants for the failure that has occurred! But she fails to do this: Pravdin announces that, by government decree, he takes custody of the house and villages of the Prostakovs.
Skotinin goes back to his place, to his favorite stables. Mrs. Prostakova asks Pravdin to give her power for at least three days. But he does not agree. He calls teachers to pay them off. Eremeevna brings Kuteikin, Tsyfirkin and Vralman. Pravdin lets them go. Kuteikin demands to be paid for his studies, for worn out boots... But Tsyfirkin refuses to pay, because Mitrofanushka hasn't learned anything. For such generosity Starodum, Milon and Pravdin give him money. And Pravdin offers Kuteikin to settle accounts with the mistress herself. He exclaims in horror: "I retreat from everything." In Vralman, Starodum recognizes his former coachman. It turns out that Vralman could not find a job as a coachman anywhere and he had to become a teacher. Starodum agrees to take him back as a coachman.
Starodum, Sofya and Milon are going to leave. Prostakova hugs Mitrofanushka: “You are the only one left with me ...” But her son is rude to her. The mother faints. Pravdin decides to send Mitrofan to serve. Waking up, Mrs. Prostakova laments: “I died completely ...” And Starodum, pointing to her, says: “Here are worthy fruits of malevolence!”
retold
