Ivan Andrejevič Krylov

Ivan Krylov stands as Russia's most celebrated fabulist. While initially drawing inspiration from Aesop and La Fontaine, his later works became distinctly original, often employing sharp satire against the stifling bureaucracy of his era. His animal fables, frequently rooted in historical events, are instantly recognizable for their unique linguistic style and compelling narratives. Krylov masterfully blended naturalistic animal portrayals with allegorical depictions of human archetypes, enriching the Russian language with enduring idioms.