Memories of Belinsky

"Воспоминания о Белинском" ("Memories of Belinsky" or "Recollections of Belinsky" in English) is not a work of fiction by Ivan Turgenev, but rather a collection of memories about the famous Russian literary critic Vissarion Belinsky. It provides an insight into Belinsky's personality, beliefs and interactions within the literary circles of his time.

Vissarion Belinsky was a prominent intellectual and literary critic in Russia, widely recognised for his influence on Russian literature and his commitment to social and political reform. He was known for his passionate belief in the role of literature as a tool for social change and progress. His philosophy and criticism had a significant impact on the development of Russian literature, particularly in promoting the ideals of social justice and attacking autocracy and feudalism through literary and critical works.

Turgenev's "Memories of Belinsky" provides a personal and revealing insight into Belinsky's life and intellectual world, not only portraying the critic himself, but also offering a glimpse into the vibrant and often tumultuous intellectual and literary climate of mid-19th century Russia. Turgenev, himself a major figure on the Russian literary scene, presents an intimate account of the experiences, conversations and reflections he shared with Belinsky. It's a valuable text for understanding the Russian literary and intellectual environment of the period.