Just finished reading this in lockdown! It really is a great read and at points I was rushing through to find out what happens. Already bought another one of Bulgakov's books 'The Heart of a Dog'. I really enjoyed this book and highly recommend it to anyone - I think even older children would love this book. Really felt your praise for it - thank you for your review.
Bulgakov is real ....and not too many real writers were at that time in SSSR Say Solginisin latter and ??? Do not forget Ilf and Petrov -"The twelve chairs" and some more books as" One floor America/ not sure how is in English /
Wow, this is the best analysis of TM&M I've ever seen on BookTube! Thank you so much for sharing these thoughts. Looking forward to watching more of your reviews.
I just finished this book for the first time a few minutes ago and this was extraordinarily helpful in helping me to navigate and understand the complexity of this book. Thanks for your insight and explanation... and what an amazing piece of literature this novel truly is
Great discussion, as always. I read this years ago and enjoyed it, but knew that there was much I was missing, and that a reread would be in order some day. Thanks for the links. I may take this book up again soon.
Thank you for enjoying my discussions and sharing with me, I really appreciate it. I felt the same way about this book as you did before re-reading it. I had read it about ten years ago and missed a lot of what was going on, and knew I was missing it, but really enjoyed it all the same. Let me know what you think if you wind up returning to it.
I just began the first two chapters on Audible and my toes have been curling from the visceral intellectual creativity and I am compelled forward. Deep, funny and wildly interesting so far. So, so glad I chose it tonight. Edit: Beyond painful to learn of Russia during that time period, but I can handle it through this book I think.
What I understood in this fantastic book is that the Devil is just another hand of our Lord, a hand that punishes, but most importantly teaches. That for all forces, the most important forces are love and justice.
For me personally the devil is a representation of humanity. Lust, greed, love or any other side. He is there to expose the aspects that socially (especially USSR) tried to hide and ignore.
The fact that Stalin absolutely loved one of Bulgakov's plays, and watched it many times probably saved the writers life. I wouldn't say that Bulgakov was considered a failure or would consider himself as such but SO much of his work was suppressed that it must have been soul crushing.
Somebody asked why M. Bulgakov wasn't sent to gulag. Stalin actually loved his play The Days of the Turbins (a very good play by the way). He kept watching this play over and over. Master and Margarita as well as The Dog's Heart were published and performed after Bulgakov's death by his widow (the third wife) in 60's during the Great Thaw (1956-1965)...
@@thepearlreview9236 And so he was! Partly the prototype was Bulgakov's second wife, especially in terms of sensuality. And in terms of devotion and love, this is the third wife who saved love and the book!
Great summary! I'm almost at the end of this book, and it's one of the most challenging and rewarding reads I've ever experienced. This book absolutely requires a second read, IMHO. My problem is that at the end of each chapter, I've been going to a lot of literary review sites just to ensure I "got" everything. And more than likely, I didn't "get" everything. So, there's definitely been a struggle between just wanting to sit back and enjoy the ride, and making sure you know what the hell is happening as well as comprehending the heavy symbolism throughout this book.
So far the best review on this book I've seen. Keep up the good work. I wonder who will succeed in making a movie in English based on this book. I know it's not going to be as good as the book, of course, but still, it would be interesting to watch at them try) I think the world needs it as it is drowning in corruption.
I've read it twice and I'm already excited to read it again. As you said, there are so many Easter-eggs and depth to the book, I learn more each reading. Thank you for your analysis.
It is a great book and your video helped me to understand it better. Your style to explain the book is amazing and unique. Thanks for sharing and I am subscribing to your channel.
Thanks a lot. I finished the book just yesterday and now I'm looking some analysis and interpretations about it. Definitely this novel as a deeper level and we may need additional resources as your video to fully get things. Regards
Thank you so much for your video. I got into literature a year ago, I feel like I have so much to catch up to… I enjoyed Kafka, I honestly love his books and I‘m halfway through Dosto. Now I know what to go for next, thank you :)
As someone whose great-grandparents were victims of Stalin's rule, it's really nice to see that Bulgakov's masterpiece helps people from all around the world understand the totalitarian regime. A wonderful analyse that helped me go in depth with the book. Best wishes!
I adore The Master and Margarita, but also greatly admired Bulgakov's "The White Guard" and his early book "A Country Doctor's Notebook". I was so interested to see somebody comment on Nabokov because before I discovered Bulgakov Nabokov was my favourite Russian writer.
I'm only on chapter 7, and I'm listening to it while reading a different translation, which I find to be helpful. I'm not really that bright. Lol If I only read it, or only listened to it, I think I would have to refer to a dictionary pretty frequently. There is more than one publication written by different translators, so if I'm not exactly sure what a sentence means, the alternate sentence is available to me as I follow along. I also like listening to the audio version, because I think I might get stuck on the names in this book. There are so many names that I would have trouble pronouncing in my head while reading, so listening to the audio version takes some pressure off. I really enjoyed the 2 chapters about the crucifixion, and wished there were more, but chapter 6 is where I really started occasionally giggling, and I appreciate the humor in it. I've seen a couple other reviews of the book (by men, if that makes any difference?) calling it overrated, and disjointed, and I was glad to see a review by someone, (who is a female like myself,) who really seemed to "get it." I was starting to sort of lose hope, or that it was a recommendation that went over my head, but after having some laughs through chapters 6 and 7, I'm much more hopeful about it. I picked this book because of watching Jordan Peterson on the TH-cams. I have a novel started, and this book was highly recommended by him when he was talking about how he approaches writing projects, and recommending certain books to see how other authors approach writing. Bulgakov is very descriptive, and reading this is a good exercise for me! Anyway, first time to your channel, and like I said, I was happy to see such an enthusiasticly positive review of this book, after watching a couple of shitty ones. ❤️
Greetings from Munich. As to the brilliant novel I feel inclined to add here that it might stop one from getting its point if one relates it only to Stalinist Russia. It could and maybe should be translated into contemporary circumstances. Do we know the brilliant novels that are not published today for lack of marketability? The Master and Margarita confronts the excesses of enlightenment that we're far from having coped with. Voland could easily descend into Silicon Valley and play his games there. He might, actually, be doing so at the moment.
Good point. In a way, Bulgakov takes and updates another work to suit his own times. Namely Faust, but he makes something totally his own. This book has some timeless themes in it - corruption, cowardice etc, and I would love to see the story adapted to another time and place.
It would be interesting to read this book in English. in Russian I have read it about ten times. Another cool book of Bulgakov is "Dog`s heart". I do not know if its translated to English.
Yes, there is! I tried reading it once and unfortunately I didn't get it at the time, but I am definitely open to reading it again, as I think it wasn't til my second finishing, third try with Master And Margarita where I totally loved and at least partially understood it.
Of course, it is. I've read it in English years ago. Every masterpiece is probably translated into English. I've also read the Master and Margarita in English once and several times in Russian. It seems like now it stuck in me forever)
I’ve not finished the book yet but I’m almost to the end and it was a hard book for me to read, between all those characters and unfamiliar surroundings. One doesn’t know how to interpret Woland is he possibly a good guy? And pointed Pilate? Is he a hero? What’s going on here? I don’t get it.
I love your reviews - succinct and performed with an obvious appreciation of your review subject(s). However, I must point out an important omission in your analysis - the autobiographical element of the novel. It seems obvious Bulgakov represents himself as "Master" and his first wife, "Tatiana Lappa," is represented by Margarita. Tatiana is known to have been beautiful while supremely and unselfishly devoted to Buglakov; and helped him through a very difficult period in his life. Yet, apparently he was callous, cold, and somewhat dismissive of her. Later, though, he came to realize how wonderful a partner she had been - not only as a wife but also as a devotee of his efforts at writing. It has been claimed that he called for her on his deathbed. I find it very interesting at the end of the book that both Master and Margarita do not proceed with Woland and retinue but are allowed to gallop off towards Heaven. What this may say about Bulgakov's ultimate feelings about Tatiana.....one can only speculate. Thanks for the review!
Thanks for the reviewe.I guess this book can't be understood without analyzing the period at which it's written ,which was the case for me(or i'm just an idiot that didn't get anything).I didn't see any of the things you said in the video in the book,almost feel ashamed for that.I think i was confused when i ended it. My thought was "What did the author mean with that work".Now i understood some things,thanks to you.(Sorry for my English).
Don't worry, this was my second reading of this book and I knew I was missing something so I researched the book. I also had a copy with endnotes. I recommend doing that if you feel like you're missing something, you might be interested in what you discover.
I'm reading it for a third time right now... and although her analyzes isn't complete (actually, I find it far from even being decent), I'd thank her zillion times if she makes even one person start reading this masterpiece!
I have only one real point of disagreement with you when you refer to Wolands minions as idiotic. The only one who comes closest is Behemoth who I feel is more absurd than idiotic (Behemoth and Koroviev are 2 of my favorite characters in literature) I don't believe either Azazello or Hela come close to that description. Great review of my favorite book. (what, no torso?)
Pilate's decision is not simply "cowardly" as you have described it. (BTW What would he be afraid of?) The tragic element is the traditional root of a tragic plot, the principle of dilemma : Conflicting loyalties between conflicting ideals, each of them vital, either to the social integrity or to personal relationships. Loyalty to state vs. loyalty to personal love is the most prominent, like in Antigona or Aida. Here it is a little different, but not much. A deeper challenge than being courageous is suggested: Which to prioritize: the institutional loyalty to country, government, diplomatic agreements, or the personal insight in face of your realizing that an alternative paradigm is brought forth and it requires research before you opt for the earlier mentioned loyalty. The dilemma between keeping his loyalty to the emperor and guarding the delicate situation with the Jewish priestly institutions: Jesus's verdict is announced after he is accused of inciting against the goodness of Tiberius. Second, as mentioned: Rome was trying hard to keep a balance between imperial hegemony and local freedom. The ancient Jews were exceptional in their customs and self government, and this delicate balance succeeded or failed not only with Rome, but also earlier, with Greece. Plus a mis-calculation on pilat's side: He was sure that Kaifa will ask to release Jesus, and based his verdict on this assumption. He is shocked to realize that Kaifa asks 3 times to release Baraban, but he can not risk his authority by changing his verdict, as, btw, explicitly marked by the sarcastic priest. Thus, each aspect of the book, the ancient historic, the personal, the contemporary historic and anecdotal, each of them is multi faceted in the book. Which makes the work even more of a marvel.
Does anyone here talk about best translations? I just bought a translation by Glenny. Is he as bad as some people say? How important is a good translation?
Thank you for the fantastic review! Made me want to re-read it for the nth time! I'm originally from Russia and Ukraine and it's one of my favourite books. One of the funniest and smartest for sure. The way you talked about it makes me think that the translation really conveyed a lot of humour and whimsy of Bulgakov's language. I wonder if you found all the side character names at all confusing or hard to keep track of who is who? Many thanks once again, keep up the great job!
I hope you've already read it. If not - just read it, you don't need any additional knowledge to the matter. It is not that complicated, but interesting and fun. After first two times you get the plot, then you read about gnosticism (it's not that "antisoviet" as gnostic), and then it will be even more interesting. I've read it about 20 times, and every time I saw something new. Good luck.
@@Anastasiia-777 Hey, thanks for responding! I haven't read it yet, but your comment has nudged me in the positive direction. And did you say that you've read it 20 freaking times?!! It must be really really good then 😅
I honestly finished this one a little while ago and couldn't stand the book (I know I'm on an island on that one). I like satire, but this was too scatterbrained and clumsy and all over the place. Maybe it was the translation, who knows? Still, I wanted to hear some thoughts about the book, especially those who loved the book. Thanks for the breakdown and analysis and thoughts.
Hi, I'm sorry I missed your comment initially. I had read this book initially many years ago and then listened to it mostly this time and I am having such a hard time online finding which translation is the Julian Tutt audiobook. I really recommend listening to the audiobook in any case to get a feel for the humor as I had mentioned. I find it infuriating that audiobooks do not often note translators as this is often so so important.
Bulgakov had written other material and Stalin actually liked him. This book was not published in bulgakov's life. He was silenced. He was in this sad limbo where he could live but he couldn't publish anything of this sort. It was under the Brezhnev Administration in the 60s that this book was published I believe
The part I didn't like was the last few chapters with Margarita succombing to the devil and having supper in hell etc. Some of the script is too packed with absurdity and it wears me out because it doesn't add much to the story. The Pilate chapters are excellent, I loved Ivan's transformation into the asylum and Woland's theatre, but I thought the ending was a bit weak and incomprehensible. (Is Pilate liberated? Why?) The plot suffered from Berlioz's death, who was an amazing character but lasted 1 chapter.
@@thepearlreview9236 i am not sure about English version. I have read original. My problem with Bulgakov is his religion arguments. Voland's argument on Patriarkhshikh Prudakh is weak. Pontius Pilate and Crucifixion is boring. now about 20th century writers Vladimir Nabokov "Lolita", Boris Pasternak "Doctor Zhivago"
Brilliant review of this masterpiece. Thank you! But i think one very important thing is missing. Story about Christ is very different from biblical story, character of Christ is distorted, His death on the cross, etc. Bulgakov's Yeshua Ha-Nozri is smart, kind, compassionate man but weak, little ingratiating with Pilate, not truly courageous. In 4 Gospels Christ shown as a Son of God who has power, humble yet very brave, He didn't ask Pilate to let him go, He died on the Cross Himself, was not killed by soldier, etc. Why character of Jesus is so different? Because it's Woland who tells the story! Some call it "gospel of devil" who is a master of lies. He told Berlioz and Bezdomnuy that Jesus really existed but he lied about Him and His death a lot. Because devil will never tells the whole truth. Also Woland is not satan. Powerful demon perhaps.. And again, demons cannot do good, they have no goodness in them, they are pure evil who have only one goal - to kill and destroy people whom they hate. Bulgakov made Woland good because perhaps he thought that Stalin was good inside, had good intentions, etc. But he was mistaken. Stalin was pure evil..
You're wrong! Woland is the Devil, Satan. This is written in plain text several times in the book. --- The devil came to Moscow in the 1930s, since Soviet Russia of those years was a godless country that turned its back on the Church. And where there is no God, the Devil goes around. --- Bulgakov does not justify either the Devil or Stalin. And Stalin was not an absolute evil. Churchill is more evil than Stalin, if you will.
Yeah the crucifixion in M&M is not the biblical one, they say in the book that the gospels aren’t to be trusted. So many details are wrong. Jesus was nailed to the cross not tied for example. Also the portrayal of Satan isn’t biblical either, because as you said satan and demons cannot do good.
Stas Vas, На способность понимать фильм большое влияние оказывает разница в культуре (история). А также, из-за влияния Голливуда иностранцы с трудом понимают киноязык Владимира Бортко.
Gleefully absurd? It was one of the silliest books I've ever read. The joke got old very quickly. This book seems like a revenge fantasy of the writer's. Because he got his own book burned? Banned? Yes I got the satire. The cynicism. The writers in Russia were idiot pawns of the state. They couldn't write with their own creativity. It was a joke. My advice to anyone who has doubts about this book. Listen to your doubts. The Pontius Pilate parallel story was incredibly disappointing . I thought the writer was going to say something profound . No. Just a weak point about lack of courage. The hype on this book is overblown. Sublimely inane.
For what it's worth, the book club I host chose this book and the whole circle really liked it. I found it difficult when I first read it ten years ago, but I loved it this time, and part of that was due to listening to it in tandem with reading it. But to each his own!
This book was so baaaaad. The only interesting part was the ball and the converstions between the retainers. You can clad it with ”best this and that” but if it stinks and looks like shit, ill just go ahead and say its shit. I only liked the stories with woland. Just so baaad
It starts off as if the writer had a point, a plot, characters, etc., and was writing down something of genius. The last third has nothing but madness as if the author said, "fuck writing this book, I'd rather smoke DMT and get stoned." I agree with you. This book is shit. The last 100 pages are devoid of reason and could just as well be the ramblings of a schizophrenic.
Nope, I found those characters funny, because they are idiots. This is a funny book, and I think it's pretty obvious I enjoyed it and I did mention its humor in this video quite a bit.
After reading this book i had a strange feeling that its written not for me. And the author itself not talking to me. The book itself has nothing of great bulgakov's style of writing. After doing some research i've watched Bikov's lecture about Master and Margarita. And Bikov was right. This book was written only for one person. For Joseph Stalin. To not desturb the Master. He changed his style for some lower intelect man coul'd understand him.
Voland is Stalin. And The master is Bulgakov. And lets be true-It has nothing anti comunistic in it (The only Bulgakovs books that has nothing Anti Comunistic in it) He is blaming people. Not the regime. Some years later Stalin called Pasternak and asked abou some anti stalinist poet. Pasternak was confused and didn't know how to answer the question (cuz the life of that poet(ive forgot his name) was in his hand) And stalin said-Just tell me - is he Master or not? (is he realy good artist or i can kill him?) There was no repressions on artists afte Master and Margarita. Bulgakov saved a lot of lives!
Why? Because it's one of the only viable, legal alternatives to magic mushrooms.
Snuggles McSquishbottom this comment made me snort.
You've obviously never done them if you think that's what they're like lmfaoo
@@The0verman Erm, no, that wasn't the point of my comment, but congrats on just having to be `that guy.
А вы погрузились в это?😂
Я вот после этой книги как будто была в Зазеркалье. Все в новых красках
Read gender study then, or history of BLM
Just finished reading this in lockdown! It really is a great read and at points I was rushing through to find out what happens. Already bought another one of Bulgakov's books 'The Heart of a Dog'. I really enjoyed this book and highly recommend it to anyone - I think even older children would love this book. Really felt your praise for it - thank you for your review.
Bulgakov is real ....and not too many real writers were at that time in SSSR Say Solginisin latter and ??? Do not forget Ilf and Petrov -"The twelve chairs" and some more books as" One floor America/ not sure how is in English /
There is absolutely brilliant Russian movie "The heart of the dog" .. Masterpiece! You can find it with English subtitles.
Wow, this is the best analysis of TM&M I've ever seen on BookTube! Thank you so much for sharing these thoughts. Looking forward to watching more of your reviews.
I am so flattered! Thank you so much for your kind words.
I just finished this book for the first time a few minutes ago and this was extraordinarily helpful in helping me to navigate and understand the complexity of this book. Thanks for your insight and explanation... and what an amazing piece of literature this novel truly is
You're very welcome!
Great discussion, as always. I read this years ago and enjoyed it, but knew that there was much I was missing, and that a reread would be in order some day. Thanks for the links. I may take this book up again soon.
Thank you for enjoying my discussions and sharing with me, I really appreciate it. I felt the same way about this book as you did before re-reading it. I had read it about ten years ago and missed a lot of what was going on, and knew I was missing it, but really enjoyed it all the same. Let me know what you think if you wind up returning to it.
I just began the first two chapters on Audible and my toes have been curling from the visceral intellectual creativity and I am compelled forward. Deep, funny and wildly interesting so far. So, so glad I chose it tonight.
Edit: Beyond painful to learn of Russia during that time period, but I can handle it through this book I think.
What I understood in this fantastic book is that the Devil is just another hand of our Lord, a hand that punishes, but most importantly teaches. That for all forces, the most important forces are love and justice.
For me personally the devil is a representation of humanity. Lust, greed, love or any other side. He is there to expose the aspects that socially (especially USSR) tried to hide and ignore.
The fact that Stalin absolutely loved one of Bulgakov's plays, and watched it many times probably saved the writers life. I wouldn't say that Bulgakov was considered a failure or would consider himself as such but SO much of his work was suppressed that it must have been soul crushing.
One of the few good things Stalin did was protect Bulgakov.
@@marissashantez6051oh. Your western brainwashing is absolutely hilarious.
Somebody asked why M. Bulgakov wasn't sent to gulag. Stalin actually loved his play The Days of the Turbins (a very good play by the way). He kept watching this play over and over. Master and Margarita as well as The Dog's Heart were published and performed after Bulgakov's death by his widow (the third wife) in 60's during the Great Thaw (1956-1965)...
Sometimes I wonder if his third wife was really Margarita...
@@thepearlreview9236 I like your idea :)
@@thepearlreview9236 And so he was! Partly the prototype was Bulgakov's second wife, especially in terms of sensuality. And in terms of devotion and love, this is the third wife who saved love and the book!
Great summary! I'm almost at the end of this book, and it's one of the most challenging and rewarding reads I've ever experienced. This book absolutely requires a second read, IMHO. My problem is that at the end of each chapter, I've been going to a lot of literary review sites just to ensure I "got" everything. And more than likely, I didn't "get" everything. So, there's definitely been a struggle between just wanting to sit back and enjoy the ride, and making sure you know what the hell is happening as well as comprehending the heavy symbolism throughout this book.
So far the best review on this book I've seen. Keep up the good work. I wonder who will succeed in making a movie in English based on this book. I know it's not going to be as good as the book, of course, but still, it would be interesting to watch at them try) I think the world needs it as it is drowning in corruption.
I've read it twice and I'm already excited to read it again. As you said, there are so many Easter-eggs and depth to the book, I learn more each reading. Thank you for your analysis.
I read this book earlier this year and loved it. I will have to reread and listen to the audio book now. Thanks for that recommendation.
I hope you enjoy it!
Thanks for recommending this channel, Brian. It's great!
Wow that’s the best book review I’ve ever seen! Thank you ❤❤❤❤
I share the same passion for this book. Your analysis is great and your passion makes me feel you know...
I like it that you review this novel without your torso showing.
thepearlreview sorry, bad joke. After learning what happened to Berlioz, seeing head without torso kind of get me every times.
@@izzatbenadnan3084 Oh! Haha! I get it now - sorry, I sometimes get mean comments out of nowhere and I was thrown off. Good joke : )
It is a great book and your video helped me to understand it better. Your style to explain the book is amazing and unique. Thanks for sharing and I am subscribing to your channel.
Thanks for the analysis. I knew as soon as I finished this book that I really didn't get it and needed to look up more info
I really like your explanation about the book. I learned a lot!
Thanks a lot. I finished the book just yesterday and now I'm looking some analysis and interpretations about it. Definitely this novel as a deeper level and we may need additional resources as your video to fully get things. Regards
Just finished reading the book and this analysis was amazing and really insightful. Keep up the good work
Glad you enjoyed it!
Thank you so much for your video. I got into literature a year ago, I feel like I have so much to catch up to… I enjoyed Kafka, I honestly love his books and I‘m halfway through Dosto. Now I know what to go for next, thank you :)
As someone whose great-grandparents were victims of Stalin's rule, it's really nice to see that Bulgakov's masterpiece helps people from all around the world understand the totalitarian regime. A wonderful analyse that helped me go in depth with the book. Best wishes!
You have such a GREAT channel. Thank you for your interpretation, it helped me quite a bit! Subscribed.
I adore The Master and Margarita, but also greatly admired Bulgakov's "The White Guard" and his early book "A Country Doctor's Notebook". I was so interested to see somebody comment on Nabokov because before I discovered Bulgakov Nabokov was my favourite Russian writer.
I'm only on chapter 7, and I'm listening to it while reading a different translation, which I find to be helpful.
I'm not really that bright.
Lol
If I only read it, or only listened to it, I think I would have to refer to a dictionary pretty frequently.
There is more than one publication written by different translators, so if I'm not exactly sure what a sentence means, the alternate sentence is available to me as I follow along. I also like listening to the audio version, because I think I might get stuck on the names in this book. There are so many names that I would have trouble pronouncing in my head while reading, so listening to the audio version takes some pressure off.
I really enjoyed the 2 chapters about the crucifixion, and wished there were more, but chapter 6 is where I really started occasionally giggling, and I appreciate the humor in it.
I've seen a couple other reviews of the book (by men, if that makes any difference?) calling it overrated, and disjointed, and I was glad to see a review by someone, (who is a female like myself,) who really seemed to "get it."
I was starting to sort of lose hope, or that it was a recommendation that went over my head, but after having some laughs through chapters 6 and 7, I'm much more hopeful about it.
I picked this book because of watching Jordan Peterson on the TH-cams. I have a novel started, and this book was highly recommended by him when he was talking about how he approaches writing projects, and recommending certain books to see how other authors approach writing. Bulgakov is very descriptive, and reading this is a good exercise for me!
Anyway, first time to your channel, and like I said, I was happy to see such an enthusiasticly positive review of this book, after watching a couple of shitty ones.
❤️
Greetings from Munich. As to the brilliant novel I feel inclined to add here that it might stop one from getting its point if one relates it only to Stalinist Russia. It could and maybe should be translated into contemporary circumstances. Do we know the brilliant novels that are not published today for lack of marketability? The Master and Margarita confronts the excesses of enlightenment that we're far from having coped with. Voland could easily descend into Silicon Valley and play his games there. He might, actually, be doing so at the moment.
Good point. In a way, Bulgakov takes and updates another work to suit his own times. Namely Faust, but he makes something totally his own. This book has some timeless themes in it - corruption, cowardice etc, and I would love to see the story adapted to another time and place.
@@thepearlreview9236 The penetrating theme might be impiousness and its consequences, mainly superstition.
Thank you for this review. It helped me understand the book a lot better.
brilliant review as per , thanks once more an absolute classic of a book
It would be interesting to read this book in English. in Russian I have read it about ten times. Another cool book of Bulgakov is "Dog`s heart". I do not know if its translated to English.
Yes, there is! I tried reading it once and unfortunately I didn't get it at the time, but I am definitely open to reading it again, as I think it wasn't til my second finishing, third try with Master And Margarita where I totally loved and at least partially understood it.
Of course, it is. I've read it in English years ago. Every masterpiece is probably translated into English. I've also read the Master and Margarita in English once and several times in Russian. It seems like now it stuck in me forever)
The movie is on TH-cam. Heart of a Dog, with English subtitles.
I’ve not finished the book yet but I’m almost to the end and it was a hard book for me to read, between all those characters and unfamiliar surroundings. One doesn’t know how to interpret Woland is he possibly a good guy? And pointed Pilate? Is he a hero? What’s going on here? I don’t get it.
Your experiencing a literary technique called Defamiliarization - where your discomfort is meant to get you to reassess your belief in certain aspects
Thank you for this, it made sense of some of the obscure parts of the book. I need to re-read it with this improved understanding.
I love your reviews - succinct and performed with an obvious appreciation of your review subject(s). However, I must point out an important omission in your analysis - the autobiographical element of the novel. It seems obvious Bulgakov represents himself as "Master" and his first wife, "Tatiana Lappa," is represented by Margarita. Tatiana is known to have been beautiful while supremely and unselfishly devoted to Buglakov; and helped him through a very difficult period in his life. Yet, apparently he was callous, cold, and somewhat dismissive of her. Later, though, he came to realize how wonderful a partner she had been - not only as a wife but also as a devotee of his efforts at writing. It has been claimed that he called for her on his deathbed. I find it very interesting at the end of the book that both Master and Margarita do not proceed with Woland and retinue but are allowed to gallop off towards Heaven. What this may say about Bulgakov's ultimate feelings about Tatiana.....one can only speculate. Thanks for the review!
Outstanding analysis !
Because it is an outstanding book. Captivating book.
Thanks for the reviewe.I guess this book can't be understood without analyzing the period at which it's written ,which was the case for me(or i'm just an idiot that didn't get anything).I didn't see any of the things you said in the video in the book,almost feel ashamed for that.I think i was confused when i ended it. My thought was "What did the author mean with that work".Now i understood some things,thanks to you.(Sorry for my English).
Don't worry, this was my second reading of this book and I knew I was missing something so I researched the book. I also had a copy with endnotes. I recommend doing that if you feel like you're missing something, you might be interested in what you discover.
you've sold me on reading this book!
I'm reading it for a third time right now... and although her analyzes isn't complete (actually, I find it far from even being decent), I'd thank her zillion times if she makes even one person start reading this masterpiece!
One of my favorite books.
We do not normally align in our tastes in books but this one got added to the amazon wish list.
Let me know what you think!
I have only one real point of disagreement with you when you refer to Wolands minions as idiotic. The only one who comes closest is Behemoth who I feel is more absurd than idiotic (Behemoth and Koroviev are 2 of my favorite characters in literature) I don't believe either Azazello or Hela come close to that description. Great review of my favorite book. (what, no torso?)
From the little I know of this Russian author, there seems to be a combining of strands of Kafka, Hesse, and Mann...and most obviously, Goethe.
There are a lot of correct words!
But you didn't say the main thing!
This is a novel about Love! One of the best in the world.
Pilate's decision is not simply "cowardly" as you have described it. (BTW What would he be afraid of?) The tragic element is the traditional root of a tragic plot, the principle of dilemma : Conflicting loyalties between conflicting ideals, each of them vital, either to the social integrity or to personal relationships. Loyalty to state vs. loyalty to personal love is the most prominent, like in Antigona or Aida. Here it is a little different, but not much.
A deeper challenge than being courageous is suggested: Which to prioritize: the institutional loyalty to country, government, diplomatic agreements, or the personal insight in face of your realizing that an alternative paradigm is brought forth and it requires research before you opt for the earlier mentioned loyalty.
The dilemma between keeping his loyalty to the emperor and guarding the delicate situation with the Jewish priestly institutions: Jesus's verdict is announced after he is accused of inciting against the goodness of Tiberius.
Second, as mentioned: Rome was trying hard to keep a balance between imperial hegemony and local freedom. The ancient Jews were exceptional in their customs and self government, and this delicate balance succeeded or failed not only with Rome, but also earlier, with Greece.
Plus a mis-calculation on pilat's side: He was sure that Kaifa will ask to release Jesus, and based his verdict on this assumption. He is shocked to realize that Kaifa asks 3 times to release Baraban, but he can not risk his authority by changing his verdict, as, btw, explicitly marked by the sarcastic priest.
Thus, each aspect of the book, the ancient historic, the personal, the contemporary historic and anecdotal, each of them is multi faceted in the book. Which makes the work even more of a marvel.
Pilate wouldve be afraid of the ire of the Emperor .. if there was social unrest to Roman rule due agitation by the Pharisees
Great book - great review!
Thanks for tuning in!
thepearlreview just purchased this book thanks for the insight looking forward to reading it :)
Great review, thank you.
Does anyone here talk about best translations? I just bought a translation by Glenny. Is he as bad as some people say? How important is a good translation?
Read 8 times and watched the movie , or mini seties, maybe 10 times. In Russian, off course. It is my favorite book, my table book, like Bible
Thank you for the fantastic review! Made me want to re-read it for the nth time! I'm originally from Russia and Ukraine and it's one of my favourite books. One of the funniest and smartest for sure. The way you talked about it makes me think that the translation really conveyed a lot of humour and whimsy of Bulgakov's language. I wonder if you found all the side character names at all confusing or hard to keep track of who is who? Many thanks once again, keep up the great job!
I'll read it again.
Can I read this book a person who has very limited understanding of the Christian faith? If not, what exactly should I learn before starting with it?
I hope you've already read it. If not - just read it, you don't need any additional knowledge to the matter. It is not that complicated, but interesting and fun. After first two times you get the plot, then you read about gnosticism (it's not that "antisoviet" as gnostic), and then it will be even more interesting. I've read it about 20 times, and every time I saw something new. Good luck.
@@Anastasiia-777 Hey, thanks for responding! I haven't read it yet, but your comment has nudged me in the positive direction. And did you say that you've read it 20 freaking times?!! It must be really really good then 😅
A movie must be made about this. What is technology useful for?
Didn't find it too complex
I honestly finished this one a little while ago and couldn't stand the book (I know I'm on an island on that one). I like satire, but this was too scatterbrained and clumsy and all over the place. Maybe it was the translation, who knows? Still, I wanted to hear some thoughts about the book, especially those who loved the book. Thanks for the breakdown and analysis and thoughts.
is there a borsht recipe in this book
The audiobook referenced is abridged and there is no information about who the translator is.
Hello! Can you please tell me which translation you read? Thank you.
Hi, I'm sorry I missed your comment initially. I had read this book initially many years ago and then listened to it mostly this time and I am having such a hard time online finding which translation is the Julian Tutt audiobook. I really recommend listening to the audiobook in any case to get a feel for the humor as I had mentioned. I find it infuriating that audiobooks do not often note translators as this is often so so important.
The devil does NOT DECAPITATE Berlioz. It was fated to happen. The devil simply tells Berlioz about it.
excellent review
Bulgacov portrayed people in general, not only Russian people. All of us are the same inside
Not really it is against the Russian people
@@bullrun2772 The book is against Russian people?
❤😻Thanks a million for the review! 🙏😻 Do you know this expression: if I am the devil's child, I will live then from the devil 😈
Thank you!
Bulgakov gave no connektions between the two novels he packed in his book. He did not care. Everybody may do this by himself.
a very interesting book
am i the only one to comment on the audio level? my god.
why? because Jordon Peterson recommended.
Imagistic? It’s a novel not part of a poetry movement.
please give me your opinion,... why wasn't Bulgakov purged? ... I'm guessing Stalin just liked the novel and let the author get away with it ...
Bulgakov had written other material and Stalin actually liked him. This book was not published in bulgakov's life. He was silenced. He was in this sad limbo where he could live but he couldn't publish anything of this sort. It was under the Brezhnev Administration in the 60s that this book was published I believe
@@thepearlreview9236 wow, thanks!
The part I didn't like was the last few chapters with Margarita succombing to the devil and having supper in hell etc. Some of the script is too packed with absurdity and it wears me out because it doesn't add much to the story. The Pilate chapters are excellent, I loved Ivan's transformation into the asylum and Woland's theatre, but I thought the ending was a bit weak and incomprehensible. (Is Pilate liberated? Why?) The plot suffered from Berlioz's death, who was an amazing character but lasted 1 chapter.
Try rereading the book.
If you do not understand the main thing that the explanation will not help you ...
Number one book "Heart of a Dog " then "The Fatal Eggs" and lastly "The Master and Margarita"
I got through half of Heart of A Dog and put it down. To each his own
@@thepearlreview9236 i am not sure about English version. I have read original. My problem with Bulgakov is his religion arguments. Voland's argument on Patriarkhshikh Prudakh is weak. Pontius Pilate and Crucifixion is boring.
now about 20th century writers Vladimir Nabokov "Lolita", Boris Pasternak "Doctor Zhivago"
Also a good book "White Guard", but it is only suitable for Russian, as there is about the civil war in Russia.
@@mrOL100 "The white guard" "belaya gvardiya"
I loved The White Guard!
Brilliant review of this masterpiece. Thank you! But i think one very important thing is missing. Story about Christ is very different from biblical story, character of Christ is distorted, His death on the cross, etc. Bulgakov's Yeshua Ha-Nozri is smart, kind, compassionate man but weak, little ingratiating with Pilate, not truly courageous. In 4 Gospels Christ shown as a Son of God who has power, humble yet very brave, He didn't ask Pilate to let him go, He died on the Cross Himself, was not killed by soldier, etc. Why character of Jesus is so different? Because it's Woland who tells the story! Some call it "gospel of devil" who is a master of lies. He told Berlioz and Bezdomnuy that Jesus really existed but he lied about Him and His death a lot. Because devil will never tells the whole truth. Also Woland is not satan. Powerful demon perhaps.. And again, demons cannot do good, they have no goodness in them, they are pure evil who have only one goal - to kill and destroy people whom they hate. Bulgakov made Woland good because perhaps he thought that Stalin was good inside, had good intentions, etc. But he was mistaken. Stalin was pure evil..
You're wrong! Woland is the Devil, Satan. This is written in plain text several times in the book.
---
The devil came to Moscow in the 1930s, since Soviet Russia of those years was a godless country that turned its back on the Church. And where there is no God, the Devil goes around.
---
Bulgakov does not justify either the Devil or Stalin.
And Stalin was not an absolute evil. Churchill is more evil than Stalin, if you will.
Yeah the crucifixion in M&M is not the biblical one, they say in the book that the gospels aren’t to be trusted. So many details are wrong. Jesus was nailed to the cross not tied for example. Also the portrayal of Satan isn’t biblical either, because as you said satan and demons cannot do good.
Go and see Russian film (in 10 ep.)! It's great too.
Stas Vas, На способность понимать фильм большое влияние оказывает разница в культуре (история). А также, из-за влияния Голливуда иностранцы с трудом понимают киноязык Владимира Бортко.
Give Russian society a rest, the Woland's finding is all peoples are essentially the same because of the same desires.
📃💕
Gleefully absurd?
It was one of the silliest books I've ever read. The joke got old very quickly.
This book seems like a revenge fantasy of the writer's. Because he got his own book burned? Banned?
Yes I got the satire. The cynicism. The writers in Russia were idiot pawns of the state. They couldn't write with their own creativity. It was a joke.
My advice to anyone who has doubts about this book. Listen to your doubts.
The Pontius Pilate parallel story was incredibly disappointing . I thought the writer was going to say something profound . No. Just a weak point about lack of courage.
The hype on this book is overblown.
Sublimely inane.
Finished it today. Here to see how anyone can like this book. One of my all time worst books.
For what it's worth, the book club I host chose this book and the whole circle really liked it. I found it difficult when I first read it ten years ago, but I loved it this time, and part of that was due to listening to it in tandem with reading it. But to each his own!
I’ve read hundreds and hundreds of books and this is one of my all time favourites :)
I’ve been reading all the comments on any recap I can find to try and understand why people like it and I still don’t get it.
This book was so baaaaad. The only interesting part was the ball and the converstions between the retainers.
You can clad it with ”best this and that” but if it stinks and looks like shit, ill just go ahead and say its shit.
I only liked the stories with woland. Just so baaad
Frotp Ptorf T I whole heartedly disagree, but to each his own
It starts off as if the writer had a point, a plot, characters, etc., and was writing down something of genius. The last third has nothing but madness as if the author said, "fuck writing this book, I'd rather smoke DMT and get stoned." I agree with you. This book is shit. The last 100 pages are devoid of reason and could just as well be the ramblings of a schizophrenic.
I really cannot take anyone's 'critique' of a book seriously when they insist on spelling even the most basic of words wrong not once but twice 🤦♂️
I actually agree, I dislike it. I don’t think I’ll be able to finish it. It seems that everyone else adores it and I can’t understand.
By saying "idiotic minions" you have told us that humour is not important in your life. I suspect you take life too seriously
Nope, I found those characters funny, because they are idiots. This is a funny book, and I think it's pretty obvious I enjoyed it and I did mention its humor in this video quite a bit.
I suspect you see parts of yourself in these minions and have taken offence @allan brown
That term is used in the book
Yea, I really don't like this book. Too chaotic and painfully unfunny for something that is supposed to be a comedy.
After reading this book i had a strange feeling that its written not for me. And the author itself not talking to me. The book itself has nothing of great bulgakov's style of writing. After doing some research i've watched Bikov's lecture about Master and Margarita. And Bikov was right. This book was written only for one person. For Joseph Stalin. To not desturb the Master. He changed his style for some lower intelect man coul'd understand him.
Voland is Stalin. And The master is Bulgakov. And lets be true-It has nothing anti comunistic in it (The only Bulgakovs books that has nothing Anti Comunistic in it) He is blaming people. Not the regime. Some years later Stalin called Pasternak and asked abou some anti stalinist poet. Pasternak was confused and didn't know how to answer the question (cuz the life of that poet(ive forgot his name) was in his hand) And stalin said-Just tell me - is he Master or not? (is he realy good artist or i can kill him?) There was no repressions on artists afte Master and Margarita. Bulgakov saved a lot of lives!
@@hke2659 Explanation for the cultists))