The system of characters in the novel «Erenger» by Mari writer M. Shketan

Abstract

This article is devoted to the analysis of the correlation of characters with each other, their individual characteristics in the novel by Yakov Pavlovich Mayorov (pen name is Shketan) «Erener». The artistic significance of literary characters in revealing the ideological and thematic content of the work, its problems, ways of expressing their character are revealed. Such heroes as Evai Petr, Vanka Savelyev, Verush, Orina, Shamrai Shumat, Klavdia Algaeva, being in the center of the prose writer’s attention and having a firm character and strong will, are actively transform the artistic reality. Through actions, deeds performed, external and internal manifestations of the personality of the main character Evai Petyr, the author’s basic concept of peace and man in it is expressed. This large art canvas reflects the history, life, culture of the Mari people of the early 20th century; the spiritual appearance and character of the Soviet people. The writer managed to reveal the individual originality of the character traits of each hero of the work, psychologically subtly outline his inner world, thoughts and experiences. Revealing the fate of typical heroes of different social strata: the social formation of communists, rural intelligentsia, wealthier peasants and merchants, poor peasants who were the first to support Soviet regime, M. Shketan tells about the life of the Mari people in the period before the October Revolution of 1917, in the first decade of Soviet regime. The wide coverage of political, social problems and deep coverage of life processes in all their complexity and versatility, a vivid character system determined the artistic significance of the work. The main feature in the depiction of the novel’s characters is that their life is shown in a creative relationship: influencing each other, changing the social system, the way of life, they change the heroes themselves.