aleksandr solzhenitsyn a day in the life of ivan denisovich

Ivan's generosity and basic good nature is further shown by his offer to assist Caesar Markovich, who considers himself so much better than the simple peasant Ivan. In this generous mood, he even feels sorry for the scavenger Fetyukov, whom he sees humiliated and crying.

Best of all, he has acquired all these benefits without having to compromise his dignity. The little piece of steel will allow him to make additional money, he has bread left over for the next day, and he has enough tobacco for awhile. More than that, he has been able to acquire some small luxuries which will help him during future days. He has successfully braved all the difficulties of the work day. Ivan's day, then, is coming to a close on an upbeat note. He is grateful that he has not ended up in a cell like the Captain and that he can even enjoy sleeping on his sheetless, sawdust mattress. Ivan, however, does not feel like sleeping he is too elated about the many good things which have happened to him during the day.

In spite of the fact that Caesar has treated him condescendingly all through the day, Ivan feels sorry for him and shows him a way to protect his food.Īfter the tedious daily routine of the roll call, Ivan and the other prisoners return to their bunks, find a place to dry their boots, and settle down for the night. It is certain that most of it will be stolen by a prisoner or a guard while he is outside in the lineup. When the signal for the evening roll call is given, Caesar does not know what to do with his package. This meal, however, is only a short reprieve for Buynovsky, who is led away shortly afterward to the punishment block. He doesn't share his food with Ivan, though he shares his food with the Captain, the only man in the gang whom he considers his equal. He has been beaten up by somebody, probably for scrounging, and although he dislikes the man, Ivan feels sorry for him because he is certain that Fetyukov will not survive the camps.Ĭaesar Markovich still has the contents of his package spread out on his bunk when he asks Ivan for his little illegal knife so that he can cut some meat. Then he hides it in a safe place.įetyukov comes into the barracks crying. He considers several ways that he can use the little piece of steel which he has smuggled in. Ivan settles down for a few small moments of relaxation before the evening roll call and lights-out.

Style and Narrative Perspective in One Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich.

Levels of Meaning in One Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich.

Ivan Speculates about Faith and Astronomy.

About One Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich.

Aleksandr solzhenitsyn a day in the life of ivan denisovich