Definition

Proper noun A 19th-century Russian author renowned for his novels, short stories, and plays. His works are celebrated for their realistic portrayal of Russian society, psychological depth, and lyrical style.

Usage

• Ivan Sergeevich Turgenev is considered one of the great masters of Russian literature.
• The novel by Ivan Sergeevich Turgenev introduced the term "nihilist" to wider discourse.
• Scholars often compare the literary approaches of Ivan Sergeevich Turgenev and his contemporaries, Tolstoy and Dostoevsky.

Advanced Usage

• Turgenevian (adj): Pertaining to or characteristic of Ivan Turgenev or his works, often describing a style marked by elegant realism, nuanced character studies, and a focus on social and generational conflict.
  • The film has a Turgenevian quality in its quiet exploration of familial tension.

Variants and Related Words

• Turgenev (n): The common shortened form of the author's surname, used interchangeably.
  • We are studying Turgenev this semester.

Synonyms

• Russian writer
• Novelist
• Playwright

Related Idioms and Phrases

• A Turgenev heroine: Often refers to a strong, idealistic, and often tragically unfulfilled female character, such as those found in or .
  • Her determination and ultimate resignation made her a classic Turgenev heroine.

Noun

1. Russian writer of stories and novels and plays (1818-1883)