(305 words) The novel “The Hero of Our Time” by M. Yu. Lermontov has incorporated features of both directions, then popular in Russia - romanticism and realism. However, romanticism, in my opinion, is expressed in the work much more strongly. Why? I will try to answer this question.
Firstly, the main character, around whom the plot develops, on which this plot is held, refers to the type of romantic characters. He is sad, finds no application in practical life, keeps himself alone and despises society. He is disappointed in life and does not expect anything from her. Neither love nor friendship pleases him, but only amuses him. Moreover, he is handsome and gifted with the mind, that is, he could well fit into the existing order and take a good place, but he is too exalted and proud, he is not satisfied with the usual hierarchy of values. All these features are inherent in Grigory Pechorin, and most of the novel is occupied by his thoughts. So, the basis of the plot and description is a romantic worldview, dynamically developing in real Russian life.
Secondly, the main topics covered in the novel are typically a romantic repertoire. For example, the author reflects on fate and devotes an entire chapter. In his opinion, it is impossible to replay it, and a person is powerless to compete with evil rock. He needs to accept it as it is, and the struggle is tragic, beautiful, but it makes no sense. This is the art of his hero’s life: although the reader is repelled by his coldness, he cannot but show sympathy for him, because what he does is beautiful, but from a practical point of view it is pointless, like a picture, like music, like poetry. This hero is superfluous, but such is his fate, and there is nothing to remake here. The author invites us to come to terms with this and observe how the lost generation in the person of Gregory destroys itself and blooms in a magnificent, but short color. As we see, both themes and their disclosure are filled with romantic ideas about the world.
Thus, the novel “The Hero of Our Time” is a typically romantic work that demonstrates to the reader the values, ideals, and ideas of the romantic hero about the world, society, feelings, and himself.
