DI Fonvizin - the first Russian playwright-comedian, who dared in times of cruel serfdom to raise the issue of his immorality, corrupting both gentlemen and peasant slaves. Using the example of the families of the Prostakov-Skotinins and their family members, he revealed the destructive essence of the autocracy, showed in what socio-economic and cultural abyss such "masters" of the country push.
Name and Title
Among the portraits of all the characters, the image of Mitrofanushka is of particular importance. In Fonvizin's comedy "Nedorosl" he represents a young generation of nobles, the future stronghold and strength of state power, the hope and support of the country. How does the young man respond to his high mission? In the characterization of the hero, the key are two concepts: his name and treatment of social status. Why did he call him Fonvizin "inexpensive Mitrofanushka"? The first word was quite common in everyday life of native speakers of the Russian language at the time. They were called young people of noble origin who had not reached the age of 21, were not of age, and therefore did not serve in the civil service. They lived under the care of their parents, not bothering themselves. If you recall the "Captain's daughter" of Pushkin, then the main character receives the same nickname. As for the name, the interpretation of its meaning is very important for understanding what is the image of Mitrofanushka. In the comedy Fonvizin "Nedorosl", a work in the spirit and traditions of classicism, the reception of talking names and surnames is used. Mitrophan, the Greek word, translates as "revealing his mother", "like a mother". What this means, we will consider below.
"My age is passing. I am preparing it for people "
That's what Mrs. Prostakova says about her son. And, indeed, she literally leans out of her skin to provide him with a comfortable and happy future. Happy, of course, from his point of view. What is growing up under the mother's wing and the reliable protection of the "mother" Eremeevna this noble sibling? Let's face it: it's a daring, rude, lazy egoist, spoiled, on the one hand, by the permissiveness of one's origin and class privileges, and on the other by the unreasonable, blind, animal love of "mama." In this sense, the image of Mitrofanushka in Fonvizin's comedy "Nedorosl" is very typical. A huge number of local noblemen, like him, spent idle time in their parents' estates, driving pigeons, commanding serfs and taking advantage of the benefits that they can extract from their labor. Fonvizinsky character embodies the most negative features of his class. He is brave and impudent with those who are helpless and defenseless. Offends Eremeevna, who grows it as a native. Mocked by the teachers, nothing to do, nothing useful without interest. Even the father of his own despises and is rude to him. But before those who are stronger, he is frankly coward. When Skotinin wants to beat his nephew, he hides behind his old nurse. And she eagerly strives to protect her beloved pet! The character and image of Mitrofanushka in Fonvizin's comedy "The Minor" speak for themselves. The son and mother are perfect complementary. Mother is proud that neither a son nor a son can read or write. And he advises: not to study science in mathematics, not to share with anyone, take everything to oneself. And he does not need geography either: cab drivers will drive! The main science - to rob as a stick of their peasants, "to fight and to bark" - mastered the hero perfectly. Like his mother, he rolls up his sleeves so that, almost by his own way, he can deal with serfs and servants who are not people, but things or working cattle for him.
"Wickedness worthy of fruit"
We well remember which phrase ends with the author (D. I. Fonvizin) "Nedorosl". Characteristics of Mitrofanushka in her as in the palm of your hand. For the sake of a rich dowry, he took part in the kidnapping of Sophia, initiated by the mother. And then, when Prostakov is excommunicated from the management of the estate, deprived of power and seeking sympathy from his son, he simply repels it. He does not need a mother. Nobody needs it. This animal, devoid of even instinctive attachments. In this regard, the hero even surpassed the mother. If she causes pity in the final of the play and even some sympathy, then it is only contempt and indignation.
Unfortunately, the comedy is also relevant today. It is not without reason that she does not descend from the stage of the capital and provincial theaters!