The Gadfly

12 hrs. 36 min.

Romance & Prose

Language Russian

Author Ethel Lilian Voynich

Narrator Dmitry Filimonov

Description

“The Gadfly” (1897) is a novel by the English writer Ethel Lilian Voynich about the difficult life path of the main character, a young Italian, Arthur Burton. It is the story of his struggle for his beliefs, his clash with his own doubts and inner contradictions, as well as his personal tragedy. Psychological accuracy and attention to the character’s emotions give the narrative a special depth and emotional force.

The first Russian translation was published just a year after the novel’s release and quickly became hugely popular in Russia, becoming an important book for revolutionary-minded youth, while in the West the novel was received much more reservedly. The work conveyed the spirit of the era and became a symbol of the aspiration for freedom and justice, inspiring many readers and influencing their views. The image of Arthur Burton continues to disturb and move readers even today, provoking a strong response.