The reception of the novel by B. Pasternak “Doctor Zhivago” in China - the image of the protagonist

Abstract

The article discusses the features of the interpretation of the image of the protagonist of B. Pasternak’s novel “Doctor Zhivago” by Chinese literary critics. In particular, issues related to the presentation of the main character - Yuri Zhivago - as the son of God (the apostle of Christ), an “extra person” or holy fool. It is noted that Zhivago’s figure is perceived and evaluated ambiguously, as indicated by the presence of certain differences in the interpretation of Dr. Zhivago’s figure by Chinese researchers. Based on the analysis, the author argues that none of the areas considered by the researchers was an exhaustive explanation of the hero’s life and behavior, which indicates the complexity of the image, its ambiguity and versatility.

Keywords

• image of the main character
• novel “Doctor Zhivago”
• B. Pasternak
• “extra person”
• phenomenon of “holy fool”
• Chinese criticism