Master and Man

The title of this story is typically translated as “Master and Man,” though the Russian original is more accurately rendered “Master and Worker.” Less a mistake than an interpretative rendering, the translation “man” is meant to capture what a more capacious understanding of “worker” seems to represents in the story. Describe why or why not “worker” and “man” can appropriately be considered synonymous, addressing the specific nature of “work” as it is rendered by the story and supporting your argument with textual evidence

The unequal and exploitative relationship between Brekhunov and Nikita implicitly raises the question of resistance. Consider what, if any, forms of resistance appear in the story—either on the part of Nikita or that of other subordinates (animals included). Using textual evidence, make an argument as to why these forms ought to be considered resistance and to what extent they are represented positively or successfully. You may also argue that no forms of resistance are apparent, in which case you must show, using textual evidence, the alternative emphasis on acceptance. 

The break-up of the peasant family explored in the scene at Grishkino is a briefly rendered but central preoccupation of the story. How does it affect your understanding of the story? Use textual evidence to support your answer. 

Only six years after the publication of “Master and Man,” Tolstoy would be excommunicated from the Russian Orthodox Church, though he would remain devoted to ethical and religious themes in his life and work. “Master and Man” is itself clearly invested in religious ideals, but is there also a critique of religion? Support your answer using textual evidence and be sure to describe the nature of the critique or, by contrast, how possible suggestions of critique may be reconciled with the form of religion that is valued in the story. 

Storms are sometimes considered metaphors for fate—where the natural elements seem to conspire to precipitate certain events in the lives of characters. Is fate a central part of “Master and Man”? Explain your answer with textual evidence.