Two centuries of the Russian classics Two centuries of the Russian classics 2686-7494 IWL RAS https://doi.org/10.22455/2686-7494-2025-7-4-234-271 Research Article Articles M. O. Menshikov and N. S. Leskov: The Evolution of the Relationship Between the Critic and the Writer Krizhanovskiy Nikolay I. red@rusklassika.ru 25 12 2025 7 4 234 271 N. S. Leskov M. O. Menshikov criticism correspondence diaries relationships evolution of perception Copyright © 2026, IWL RAS 2026 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. 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