7. Fathers and Sons by Ivan Turgenev
Fathers and Sons is a seminal novel by Ivan Turgenev, first published in 1862. The story follows Arkady Kirsanov, a recent university graduate, who returns home with his friend Yevgeny Bazarov, a self-proclaimed nihilist. Bazarov’s radical views challenge the traditional values of the older generation, leading to ideological conflicts and personal tensions. Turgenev’s exploration of generational divides and the rise of nihilism offers a profound commentary on modernization and tradition in Russia. The novel’s social realism continues to resonate, providing valuable insights into human relationships and societal change.
