Author: Jinya, Chang

Annotation: As a unique cultural phenomenon in Russia, the figure of the Foolishness for Christ has been depicted in Old Russian literature since ancient times. With the revival of Russian Orthodoxy in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, the Foolishness for Christ has reemerged in Russian literature. Studying Foolishness for Christ-like characters and their spiritual essence in contemporary Russian literature holds significant importance for deepening our understanding of modern Russian literature and clarifying its developmental trajectory. Arseny in the novel Laurus exemplifies a quintessential contemporary Foolishness for Christ. The novel also portrays the archetypal Foolishness for Christ Foma, who guides and enlightens Arseny. The narrative culminates in revealing the unique contemporary significance of Foolishness for Christ figures in modern Russian literature: their role in guiding and redeeming the nation and its people, offering a distinct answer to the quest for the Russian spirit.

Keywords: Foolishness for Christ; Vodolazkin; Laurus; Russian Literature; Russian Culture; Russian Nation; Religious Studies

Pages in journal: 878 - 886