The famous novel by American writer Margaret Mitchell “Gone with the Wind” (1926–1936) became a bestseller from the very first days of its appearance and has remained one ever since for seven decades. The story of Scarlett O’Hara, a representative of the noble Southern family who survived the horrors of the Civil War of 1861–1865, losing wealth, position, her familiar way of life, and almost losing her life itself—yet managing to overcome all hardships thanks to her determination and courage—captivates the hearts of new and new generations of readers, viewers, and listeners.
In the first volume we enjoy the description of a measured and prosperous life on the ancestral estate Tara, we see the self-willed and determined character of the spoiled girl, her first romantic enthusiasms, and we watch how her feelings for Ashley Wilkes begin to form—feelings that are destined to remain unfulfilled throughout the novel. The Civil War shattered the wonderful world in which the heroes lived to pieces. But Scarlett managed to survive (Mitchell said that the main theme of the novel is survival), to stand her ground, to overcome incredible hardships, and to help her loved ones.
The second volume depicts postwar life in Atlanta, no less difficult than the earlier period. Yet even now, Scarlett finds her place and adapts to new conditions, although this earns the disapproval of her surroundings. Her love—hatred for Rhett Butler—ups and downs in their relationship, separations—breakups and meetings filled with drama—keep the listener in constant tension.