The Emigrant

Lyubov Dostoevskaya's 'The Emigrant' is a captivating semi-autobiographical novel that follows a Russian woman named Irene, who is living in Italy. Despite only two Russians taking part in the story, the long struggle portrayed is distinctly Russian. The novel centers around the conflict between the influence of Père Etienne and the impact of Prince Gzhatsky, a compatriot with handsome looks and a robust mind. Irene is a fascinating character, vivacious and spontaneous, yet lonely and selfish, and the pension she resides in is full of old maids. She is in her forties and unmarried, with no close family or friends. Through Irene's journey, the reader is taken on a deeply interesting study of contemporary types and the Russian struggle.