Vissarion Belinsky

Date of Birth: June 11, 1811

Zodiac Sign: Gemini

Date of Death: May 26, 1848

Biography

Vissarion Grigoryevich Belinsky was a renowned Russian literary critic of the 19th century, often considered one of the most influential critics in Russian literature. Born in the village of Sveaborg, Finnish archipelago (then part of the Russian Empire), he grew up in an intellectual family environment that fostered his early love for literature and philosophy. Belinsky attended the Moscow University, where he studied philosophy but was expelled due to his radical ideas. Despite his expulsion, Belinsky continued to write and became a prominent figure in the Russian literary scene. He was known for his sharp and insightful critiques, particularly his ability to identify and nurture emerging literary talents. He collaborated with several leading literary journals of his time, including “Otechestvennye Zapiski” and “Sovremennik.” His critiques often discussed the social and political implications of literature, advocating for realism and the portrayal of the common people’s struggles. Belinsky’s works significantly influenced Russian literature, promoting the idea that literature should serve a social and moral purpose. He was a proponent of the Russian intelligentsia and believed that writers had a duty to address societal issues. His correspondence with famous writers like Alexander Herzen, Nikolai Gogol, and Ivan Turgenev further cemented his legacy as a literary critic who shaped the course of Russian literature.

5 Interesting Facts about Vissarion Belinsky

1. Belinsky was expelled from Moscow University in 1832 due to his radical views, which did not align with the conservative academic environment.

2. He is credited with being one of the first critics to recognize the talent of Fyodor Dostoevsky, particularly praising his early works.

3. Belinsky’s famous “Letter to Gogol” in 1847 criticized the latter’s conservative turn and defense of serfdom, which had a significant impact on Russian intellectual circles.

4. Despite his critical stance, Belinsky was a close friend of several famous Russian authors, including Nikolai Nekrasov and Ivan Turgenev.

5. Belinsky’s health was fragile throughout his life; he suffered from tuberculosis, which eventually led to his early death at the age of 36.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Vissarion Belinsky

1. “Literature is the living voice of a nation and should reflect the true spirit of the people.”

2. “The purpose of art is not to depict the outward appearance of things, but their inward significance.”

3. “Criticism is not an end in itself but a means to an end, which is the improvement of literature and society.”

4. “A writer is the conscience of his nation, and his duty is to speak the truth, no matter how bitter or unpleasant it may be.”

5. “The greatness of literature lies not in its ability to entertain but in its power to transform and elevate the human spirit.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

There are no reliable records of Belinsky’s net worth. During his lifetime, he lived modestly and often struggled financially due to his dedication to his literary and critical work.