Mikhail Lermontov’s A Hero of Our Time is a unique novel that not only focuses on various narrative perspectives but also reveals extensive character analysis through different styles of writing. From the unnamed narrator to the various women that will play critical roles in analyzing Pechorin, Lermontov presents the readers with strategic, yet poised structure throughout the novel. Character analysis of Pechorin, a complex character with a cynical personality, allows readers to understand how manipulation, innocence, and power through love can be all used to emerge as an immoral hero. As readers learn more about Pechorin through his journal, he is definitely not an ordinary character. Pechorin often contradicts with other men and uses power not just for himself, but against others. He is a man who enjoys competition and
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In the foreword to Pechorin’s journal, even the narrator was “convinced of the sincerity of the man who so ruthlessly exposed his own failings and vices” (55). This is because he does not let anyone conquer him and believes that his definition of “hero” must be willing to face even their worst enemies. Nonetheless, it is ironic to see that Pechorin says “I’m writing this journal for myself, and anything I care to put it in will one day be a precious memory for me” (104). Having memories seems like something Pechorin would not take much value or not cherish in his life. Yet, we see a surprising and frank aspect of Pechorin, which makes him both a mysterious and an ironic character. At most times, Pechorin’s emotions are gone unexpressed, but we also see a complex contradiction as he senses emotional weakening of Princess Mary due to his intended manipulation and grief for Vera, the only woman that he expresses feelings. He definitely does not express this to the two women, but the readers feel these emotions in his
In the foreword to Pechorin’s journal, even the narrator was “convinced of the sincerity of the man who so ruthlessly exposed his own failings and vices” (55). This is because he does not let anyone conquer him and believes that his definition of “hero” must be willing to face even their worst enemies. Nonetheless, it is ironic to see that Pechorin says “I’m writing this journal for myself, and anything I care to put it in will one day be a precious memory for me” (104). Having memories seems like something Pechorin would not take much value or not cherish in his life. Yet, we see a surprising and frank aspect of Pechorin, which makes him both a mysterious and an ironic character. At most times, Pechorin’s emotions are gone unexpressed, but we also see a complex contradiction as he senses emotional weakening of Princess Mary due to his intended manipulation and grief for Vera, the only woman that he expresses feelings. He definitely does not express this to the two women, but the readers feel these emotions in his