M. O. Menshikov and N. S. Leskov: The Evolution of the Relationship Between the Critic and the Writer

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Krizhanovskiy, N. I. “M. O. Menshikov and N. S. Leskov: The Evolution of the Relationship Between the Critic and the Writer.” Dva veka russkoi klassiki, vol. 7, no. 4, 2025, pp. 234–271. (In Russ.) https://doi.org/10.22455/2686-7494-2025-7-4-234-271
Abstract:
This article analyzes the relationship between M. O. Menshikov and N. S. Leskov from 1892 to 1895, using correspondence, diaries, and articles. The research discusses the reasons for the rapprochement between the critic and the writer, the particularities of their attitudes toward the works of classic writers, and the specifics of their interaction. The article shows that Leskov’s desire to influence critical responses to his work was embodied in the verbal strategy of his letters to Menshikov: the writer attempted, without much success, to influence the critic’s system of ideas, convincing him of the truth of his assessments. Menshikov’s complementary article “Artistic Sermon” (1894) was critically received by the writer, but did not lead to a breakdown in relations with Menshikov, whom Leskov held in high esteem. When reviewing the obituary “In Memory of N. S. Leskov” (1895), Menshikov maintained his high assessment of the writer’s personality and work. However, the article “Veiled Sin” (1899) revealed a fundamental value mismatch between Menshikov and Leskov. The study reveals a shift in the critic’s perception of the writer’s work: from a lack of interest to a profound understanding of the artistic world and a partial ideological overlap, and then to a manifestation of this value mismatch, perceiving Leskov as a victim of liberal criticism.
Keywords: N. S. Leskov, M. O. Menshikov, criticism, correspondence, diaries, relationships, evolution of perception.
Author: Nikolay I. Krizhanovskiy
Information about the author:
Nikolay I. Krizhanovskiy, PhD in Philology, Associate Professor, Kuban State University, Stavropolskaya St., 149, 350040 Krasnodar, Russia.

ORCID ID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2764-7117

E-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Received: June 06, 2025
Approved after reviewing: August 05, 2025
Published: December 25, 2025
Issue: 2025 Volume 7 No. 4
Department: Russian Literature of the 18th–19th Centuries
Pages: 234-271
DOI: Visit Website
EDN:
https://elibrary.ru/OPVSOP
UDK: 821.161.1.09"19"
Publication Type: Research Article

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