Abstract

A talking cat, insane writers, and the devil himself walking the streets of Moscow. How do these surreal elements combine in Mikhail Bulgakov’s novel The Master and Margarita to create a resistance novel that left a lasting impression on the meaning of empowerment? This text has been examined in terms of its themes, allusions, the process of its creation, and its relationship to censorship, but not the intangible quality of empowerment. Bulgakov chose to resist oppression through deeply personal writing he knew could not be published in his lifetime. I will be examining the novel using different writings from German theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer (1906-1945) evaluating the significance and impact of the empowerment found in nonviolent resistance, authorship, and the idea of the strength that can be found in what appears to be weakness. Interpreting The Master and Margarita through Bonhoeffer’s lens reveals a new layer of meaning within the novel. By combining historical, referential, and Biblical elements, Bulgakov resisted oppression and censorship to seek a greater truth, despite knowing that it would not be published in his lifetime. This independent study argues that resistance is not found only in loud or violent action, but rather that the most lasting sources of empowerment are quiet, unassuming, and worthy of recognition.

Advisor

Mirza, Sarah

Second Advisor

Rewinski, Zachary

Department

Religious Studies; Russian Studies

Disciplines

Christianity | Religion | Russian Literature | Translation Studies

Keywords

Jesus, Bulgakov, Bonhoeffer, empowerment, resistance literature

Publication Date

2024

Degree Granted

Bachelor of Arts

Document Type

Senior Independent Study Thesis

Download

Share

COinS
 

© Copyright 2024 Nina Anderson