(335 words) The meaning of the novel by M.Yu. Lermontov - show the conflict of personality and team. It is in the chapter “Princess Mary” that the main character, Pechorin, confronts the so-called “water society”. On the pages of the novel we see clashes not only of opinions, but also of outlooks on life. What is this group of people?
So, the “water society” consists of representatives of the nobility who personify the overall picture of secular life of the XIX century. They envy each other, weave intrigues and gossip. Pechorin is all alien. He confronts them. But "water society" plays a big role in the novel. It helps readers to better understand the main character. Consider the representatives of this social group. Let's start with Grushnitsky. He is a miserable copy of Pechorin. If we carefully consider his image, we will see that it causes mockery. Grushnitsky is trying to make at least some impression, if only he would be remembered. Yes, the hero is romantic, but his feelings are filled with falsehood. Because of his pride, he cannot refuse to participate in a duel. Princess Mary is beautiful, smart and young. Her integrity and spiritual purity help us better understand the selfishness of Grigory Alexandrovich, who violates these virtues. Despite his secrecy, it is with her that the hero shares his thoughts and feelings. However, this girl already shows the artificial tricks of secular lionesses, she is also not natural.
In "water society" only Werner does not confront the protagonist of the novel. They have similar views on many things. But Werner is more practical and passive. He does not pursue a better life. For example, before a duel, he asks Pechorin if he made a will. This expresses his indifference to the world.
Faith helps us understand how miserable Pechorin is. He is not capable of loving feelings and sincerity, but at the same time he is passionately in need of it. When the heroine leaves, he drives a horse in an attempt to catch her, and after a failure, weeps frantically.
In addition to these heroes, the “water society” includes both the military and the youth, who are united by reverence, constant gossip, intrigue and idleness, corrupting the soul. This whole atmosphere is comical, and the characters are funny. Nevertheless, we see that the “water society” helps us better understand Pechorin, as well as see the high society as it was in the 19th century.
