Fedor Sologub in English-language anthologies 1950-2023

Abstract

The works of the writer Fedor Sologub have appeared in English translation since 1913. Many of them were published in literary anthologies, a popular means for bringing aspects of a literature to readers who do not read the original language. Before 1950, Sologub was featured mostly in general collections, which usually portray him as Russia’s quintessential decadent author. After 1950, in connection with increased interest in the Russian language, a more diverse range of anthologies was published, many of which were created by scholars with a background in Russian literature. Their portrayal of Sologub, as a result, often was more detailed and nuanced and explored aspects of his poetics beyond his “decadence”. The anthologies themselves included many works that had not previously appeared in English, not only his poetry and prose, but also dramas and theoretical writings. Covering the years 1950-2023, this article discusses the major types of literary anthologies that feature Sologub and examines how they presented him to English-speaking audiences. Attached to the article are bibliographies of anthologies that include Sologub’s works and of the translations that appear in them.