The Thieving Magpie

The book includes the stories “The Magpie-Thief” and “The Legend” by the outstanding Russian writer, publicist, and memoirist Aleksandr Ivanovich Herzen (1812–1870).

The texts in this edition are included in the curricula for grades 5–11 of general education schools of all levels; they are suitable for studying in class and for independent reading at home.

And here I was reading “Fiesco” and completely captivated by the play—so taken aback, stirred, uplifted by it; when suddenly someone said, “Excellent, excellent!”—and placed his hand on my bared shoulder. I recoiled in horror toward the wall. It was the prince.

“What is it you require, Your Highness?” I asked, my voice trembling with rage and indignation.

“I am a weak woman; you have just seen that, but believe me: I can be strong, too…”

A. I. Herzen “The Magpie-Thief”