Mikhail Bulgakov

Date of Birth: May 15, 1891

Zodiac Sign: Taurus

Date of Death: March 10, 1940

Biography

Mikhail Afanasyevich Bulgakov was a renowned Russian writer born on May 15, 1891, in Kyiv, which was then part of the Russian Empire. He is best known for his novel “The Master and Margarita,” a complex and multi-layered work that intertwines fantasy and reality, and offers a sharp critique of Soviet society. Bulgakov initially pursued a career in medicine, graduating from the First Moscow State Medical University in 1916. However, his passion for literature soon took precedence, and he began writing full-time after World War I. Bulgakov’s works often reflect his skepticism of the Soviet regime, which led to many of his writings being banned during his lifetime. Despite this, he continued to write, producing plays, novels, and short stories that have since become classics of Russian literature. His other notable works include “Heart of a Dog,” “The White Guard,” and “Theatrical Novel.” Bulgakov’s life was marked by personal and professional struggles, including censorship, political pressure, and financial difficulties. He died on March 10, 1940, in Moscow. Posthumously, his works gained significant recognition and have been translated into numerous languages, solidifying his place as one of the most significant Russian authors of the 20th century.

5 Interesting Facts about Mikhail Bulgakov

1. Mikhail Bulgakov was originally a trained physician and served as a doctor during the Russian Civil War.

2. His novel “The Master and Margarita” was not published in its entirety until nearly three decades after his death.

3. Bulgakov’s works were often banned or censored due to their critical portrayal of Soviet society.

4. He was married three times, and his third wife, Yelena Shilovskaya, was a significant influence on his work.

5. “Heart of a Dog,” another of his famous works, is a satirical novella that critiques the Soviet attempt to transform society through scientific experimentation.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Mikhail Bulgakov

1. “Manuscripts don’t burn.”

2. “Everything passes away—suffering, pain, blood, hunger, pestilence. The sword will pass away too, but the stars will remain when the shadows of our presence and our deeds have vanished from the earth.”

3. “Cowardice is the most terrible of vices.”

4. “Love leaped out in front of us like a murderer in an alley leaping out of nowhere, and struck us both at once.”

5. “Of what use to the devil are heroes and martyrs?”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Mikhail Bulgakov did not achieve significant financial success during his lifetime. His highest net worth was relatively modest compared to modern standards, with much of his work being banned or censored. Posthumously, his literary estate has gained substantial value due to the global recognition of his works.