"The Tale of Igor's Campaign" is a literary monument of Ancient Russia, which describes the events of the 12th century. A lot of controversy went about this work: about authenticity, about the time of creation and about the person who created it. Unfortunately, the author's problem in The Tale of Igor's Campaign remained unresolved. Both Cyril of Turov and Prince Igor were credited with its creation. However, this does not mean that the characterization of the author will be meaningless. "The Tale of Igor's Campaign" is a work, about the creator of which one can still say something quite definite. This article is dedicated to this.
Brief description of the author
"The Tale of Igor's Campaign" was created by a writer who remained unknown. However, we can talk about the image of the author. In the work, it looks pretty good. What is the characteristic of the author? "The Tale of Igor's Campaign" was created, of course, by a contemporary of those described in itevents. It is very likely that he was one of the soldiers of Prince Igor. However, he could also be a monk, because at that time they were among the most educated people. The fact that this could be one of the close associates of the prince is evidenced by the detail and accuracy in the depiction of battles. Another option is a statesman who was well aware of the state of affairs in the state.
The characterization of the author can be supplemented with a broad historical outlook. "The Tale of Igor's Campaign" is filled with many excursions into history, on the basis of which such a conclusion can be drawn.
The author is also well versed in the political upheavals of the time, since he clearly understands the reasons for the defeat of Prince Igor, and knows how to protect the homeland from the encroachments of nomads. The creator of "Words …" is an educated person and a true patriot. This characterization of the author is beyond doubt. "The Tale of Igor's Campaign" is a work full of patriotic spirit. Being a participant in the events described, the author could not fail to note the valor of the prince and his soldiers. He seems to relive the defeat of his troops and rejoices when the prince returns home.
Author's attitude to war
Thinking about the country, he turns to its past in order to understand the present. "Word …" is a consistent narrative about one tragic episode dating back to the time of the war with the Polovtsy. Thisthe war, it would seem, was just one of many others that the Russian princes waged for independence, fighting the nomads. However, the author of "Words …" considers it as a very important event for Russia. He calls on the Russian princes to unite, because this is the only way to defeat the enemy. The voice of a true patriot sounds in this call. This is a man who wants peace and prosperity for his homeland.
Intro to the work
In the introduction to the work, the author notes that his story will be conducted "according to the epics of this time." Further mention is made of Bojan, a singer he will not follow. The author says that his work is dedicated not only to the campaign of Prince Igor. Its theme is the history of Russia from Vladimir to contemporary events.
Start of story
Starting the story, the author first of all admires the courage of Prince Igor, the desire to "bring" regiments to Polovtsian and all Russian land. The description of the meeting between the brothers Vsevolod and Igor is filled with joy. The author did not bypass the army of Prince Vsevolod. The story of the valor of the warriors presents his brief description.
"The Tale of Igor's Campaign": Description of Omens
The next story about the terrible signs foreshadowing a tragic outcome is a sharp contrast to all this. The author describes the disturbing behavior of animals, unusual ominous sounds heard in the silence of the night, a solar eclipse. He seems to be reliving all these events again. The author would like to warnprince about the upcoming misfortunes. Despite the fact that the following tells about the victory that brought rich trophies to the Russians, the author again returns to the description of terrible omens: "black clouds from the sea" and "bloody dawns" prophesy trouble.
Time of Prince Oleg
The creator of "Words…" before describing the upcoming battle, recalls the reign of Prince Oleg. He notes that at this time the princes were constantly at enmity with each other. Because of this civil strife, they became vulnerable to an external enemy. However, those bloody events do not go to any comparison with the current battle. The consequences of the defeat of Prince Igor will affect all of Russia. Nature itself mourns for him.
Svyatoslav's dream
Svyatoslav, prince of Kyiv, sees a prophetic dream, and then learns that Igor's troops are defeated. In his word, "mixed with tears," one can see the reflection of the author's thoughts. Svyatoslav reproaches the Russian princes for setting out on an untimely campaign in search of glory. Continuing this thought, the author turns to the princes and calls on them to intercede "for the wounds of Igor".
Yaroslavna's Lament
The narrator conveys Yaroslavna's lament with sincere sympathy. In it, she asks the forces of nature to help Igor, who is in captivity, escape. Together with Yaroslavna, he wishes with all his heart the soonest return of the prince. Yaroslavna cares not only about her husband, but also about his soldiers.
Return of Igor
The author solemnly describes Igor's return to Kyiv. He says thatit is a great joy for all. Not a word of reproach is heard in his words. The characterization of Igor from "The Tale of Igor's Campaign" is devoid of negative assessments. The author understands that the reason that the best of the princes are not able to win is not in themselves, but in the disunity of the princes. Igor is the embodiment of various princely virtues, whatever condemnation he deserves. The characterization of Igor from "The Tale of Igor's Campaign", given by the author, simply cannot be different due to the great patriotism of the creator of the work. Together with the people, he forgives the prince's mistakes and sings glory to him, thanks for the fact that he did not spare himself when he went to beat the enemy. A talented narrator, creating his work, thought about the future. He assumed that the failure that befell Igor would serve as a good lesson for the princes, and they would realize the need to unite the fragmented Russian principalities into a single state.
Author's talent
It remains unclear how the author was able to convey so accurately the events unfolding in different places at the same time. This can only be explained by his incredible talent. The author of "Words …" left to posterity a grandiose work that sheds light on the events of bygone days. A through image is the image of the Russian land, dear and close to his heart. The author looks at her as if from a bird's eye view. The whole Russian land is covered by his gaze. All hopes, all thoughts of the creator of "Words …" are connected with her. Such is the image of the author of "The Tale of Igor's Campaign",who certainly thought very broadly.
In conclusion
So, we see that the creator of the work is a patriot who passionately loves Russia. He shares her fate, experiences with her all her misfortunes. However, he does not want to accept the hardships that befell Russia. The author calls on the princes to unite. One can feel his confidence that Russia will still achieve its greatness. Completing the image of the author of "The Tale of Igor's Campaign", let's add that he believes in justice and kindness as the basis of life.
