Eugene Onegin Facts for Kids

Quick facts for kids
Eugene Onegin
First edition of the novel
Author	Alexander Pushkin
Original title	Евгений Онегин
Translator	Vladimir Nabokov, Charles Johnston, James E. Falen, and Walter Arndt.
Country	Russia
Language	Russian
Genre	Novel, Verse
Publication date	1825-1832 (in serial) & 1833 (single volume)
Media type	Print (Hardback & Paperback)

Eugene Onegin (pronounced Yev-GAY-nee Oh-NYAY-gin) is a famous novel written as a long poem by Alexander Pushkin. It's a true classic from Russian literature.

Pushkin published this story in parts between 1825 and 1832. The full book came out in 1833. The version we read today is based on the 1837 publication.

The story is told by a narrator, who sounds a lot like Pushkin himself. This narrator often shares thoughts about society and people. This helps us understand the characters and the story better.

The Story of Eugene Onegin
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The Story of Eugene Onegin

Onegin's Arrival and Tatyana's Love

The story begins with Eugene Onegin, a young nobleman. He is quite a dandy, meaning he cares a lot about his looks and fashion. Onegin inherits his uncle's large estate.

However, Onegin is often bored and cynical. He doesn't find much joy in life. He meets Tatyana Larina, a shy girl who loves reading books.

Tatyana falls deeply in love with Onegin. She writes him a heartfelt letter, telling him all her feelings.

Onegin's Rejection and Its Consequences

Onegin does not write back to Tatyana. When they finally meet, he tells her he cannot return her love. This moment is often called 'Onegin's Sermon'.

He admits her letter was touching. But he says he would quickly get bored with marriage. He can only offer Tatyana his friendship. He also advises her to control her emotions more in the future. He warns her that someone else might take advantage of her innocence.

As time passes, their lives go in different directions. Onegin's life takes a sad turn. He ends up killing his best friend in a duel. Meanwhile, Tatyana's life begins to get much better.

Years Later: A New Encounter

Many years later, Onegin attends a fancy ball in St. Petersburg. He sees a beautiful woman who everyone admires. He soon realizes it is Tatyana.

She is now married to an older prince. Onegin becomes completely focused on winning her love. He tries to get her attention, even though she is married.

However, Tatyana rejects his attempts. He writes her several letters, but she does not reply.

Tatyana's Final Decision

Eventually, Onegin manages to see Tatyana in person. He offers her a chance to restart their old love. She remembers the time when they might have been happy together. But she tells him that time has passed.

Onegin tells her again that he loves her. For a moment, Tatyana admits that she still loves him too. But she quickly says she will not let him ruin her life. She declares that she will stay loyal to her husband. She then leaves Onegin to his bitter regrets.