Leonid Andreyev was a prominent Russian playwright and short-story writer who spearheaded the Expressionist movement in national literature. Active between revolutionary periods, his work gained significant traction after being discovered by Maxim Gorky. Andreyev rapidly ascended to literary stardom, recognized for his early narratives and later for his Symbolist dramas. His writing is characterized by a burgeoning eccentricity that left a distinct mark on Russian letters.
Leonid Andreyev's Expressionist novella The Red Laugh is an experimental, fragmentary depiction of war and its psychological effects. Translated into English for the first time since 1905, it is here paired with a fresh translation of Andreyev's earlier story The Abyss, which caused scandal when it first appeared in 1902.
Set against a backdrop of historical significance, this classic work has been preserved through modern republishing efforts to ensure its accessibility for future readers. The text has been meticulously reformatted and redesigned, providing clarity and readability. It explores themes relevant to Slavic languages and literature, making it a valuable addition for those interested in this genre. The dedication to preserving the original's essence while enhancing its presentation highlights its importance throughout human history.
Satan returns to Earth as a wealthy American businessman, enjoying life in Europe. With good intentions, he meets various morally corrupt individuals and falls for a beautiful young woman, making him vulnerable to those who seek to exploit the Devil himself.
Translated by Herman Bernstein
Leonid Nikolaievich Andreyev (21 August [O. S. 9 August] 1871 - 12 September 1919) was a Russian playwright, novelist and short-story writer, who is considered to be a father of Expressionism in Russian literature. He is regarded as one of the most talented and prolific representatives of the Silver Age period. Andreyev's style combines elements of realist, naturalist, and symbolist schools in literature. Of his 25 plays, his 1915 play He Who Gets Slapped is regarded as his finest achievement.
Leonid Nikolaievich Andreyev (21 August [O. S. 9 August] 1871 - 12 September 1919) was a Russian playwright, novelist and short-story writer, who is considered to be a father of Expressionism in Russian literature. He is regarded as one of the most talented and prolific representatives of the Silver Age period. Andreyev's style combines elements of realist, naturalist, and symbolist schools in literature. Of his 25 plays, his 1915 play He Who Gets Slapped is regarded as his finest achievement.
Leonid Nikolaievich Andreyev (21 August [O. S. 9 August] 1871 - 12 September 1919) was a Russian playwright, novelist and short-story writer, who is considered to be a father of Expressionism in Russian literature. He is regarded as one of the most talented and prolific representatives of the Silver Age period. Andreyev's style combines elements of realist, naturalist, and symbolist schools in literature. Of his 25 plays, his 1915 play He Who Gets Slapped is regarded as his finest achievement.
Leonid Nikolaievich Andreyev (21 August [O. S. 9 August] 1871 - 12 September 1919) was a Russian playwright, novelist and short-story writer, who is considered to be a father of Expressionism in Russian literature. He is regarded as one of the most talented and prolific representatives of the Silver Age period. Andreyev's style combines elements of realist, naturalist, and symbolist schools in literature. Of his 25 plays, his 1915 play He Who Gets Slapped is regarded as his finest achievement.
Translated by By W. H. Lowe
Leonid Nikolaievich Andreyev (21 August [O. S. 9 August] 1871 - 12 September 1919) was a Russian playwright, novelist and short-story writer, who is considered to be a father of Expressionism in Russian literature. He is regarded as one of the most talented and prolific representatives of the Silver Age period. Andreyev's style combines elements of realist, naturalist, and symbolist schools in literature. Of his 25 plays, his 1915 play He Who Gets Slapped is regarded as his finest achievement.
Leonid Nikolaievich Andreyev, a prominent figure of the Silver Age in Russian literature, is celebrated for his contributions as a playwright, novelist, and short-story writer. As a pioneer of Expressionism, his work blends realism, naturalism, and symbolism. Among his 25 plays, "He Who Gets Slapped," written in 1915, stands out as his most acclaimed piece, showcasing his unique literary style and depth.
Edited by Alfred Kreymborg
Leonid Nikolaievich Andreyev, a prominent figure of the Silver Age in Russian literature, is celebrated as a pioneer of Expressionism. His literary style uniquely blends realism, naturalism, and symbolism. Among his 25 plays, "He Who Gets Slapped," written in 1915, stands out as his most acclaimed work, showcasing his talent and prolific nature as a playwright, novelist, and short-story writer.