Russia as Seen by Heine’s “La Mouche” (I. S. Turgenev and Camille Selden)

Abstract

The article offers for the first time an analysis of a series of critiques written by the French author Camille Selden (pseudonym of Elise Krinitz) and devoted to I. S. Turgenev’s works. Published in 1879 by the Paris newspaper “Le XIXe siècle,” these articles were read and appreciated by the writer in a letter addressed to Selden that is being now introduced into scientific circulation. “La Mouche” is known in literary circles as Heinrich Heine’s last love: he dedicated six poems to her and addressed her at least two dozens of letters. It was from Heine that Eliza received the nickname “La Mouche.” Later, she turned out to be an insightful critic who highly appreciated the work of the Russian writer. Despite numerous flaws, and sometimes not a very careful reading of Turgenev’s texts, Selden showed wide familiarity with the writer’s works, although often her assessments look more exotic than deep. In general, Selden’s view of Russia caused Turgenev’s rejection.

Keywords

• i. s. turgenev
• russia
• heinrich heine
• french literature
• hippolyte taine
• g. flaubert
• naturalism
• e. zola
• “smoke
• ” “roudine.”