Makar Chudra

"Makar Chudra" is Maxim Gorky’s first published work. First printed in 1892 in the newspaper "Kavkaz". The pseudonym—Maxim Gorky—was used for the first time in that newspaper. It was adapted into a film in 1976.

The main character of the piece is an old Gypsy, Makar Chudra. He tells a legend about the love between two young Gypsies—Loiko Zobar and Radda—who love each other, yet believe that love is a chain that binds their independence. As a result, Loiko kills Radda and, in front of everyone, kneels before her—already dead—fulfilling the condition for their wedding set earlier by the girl[1]. Radda’s father, who witnessed the murder of his daughter, kills Loiko with a knife.