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In Griboyedov's comedy "Woe from Wit" the main opposing array of events occurs in the images of Chatsky and Famusov. The remaining acting characters help reveal the true state of affairs and the depth of the conflict.

Origin and occupation

One of these characters, with the help of which the tragedy of what is happening is enhanced, is the image of Alexei Stepanovich Molchalin.

We invite you to familiarize yourself with Famusov’s characteristics

Molchalin does not belong to the aristocracy - he is a man of ignoble origin, but thanks to his service, he has access to high society.

Alexey Stepanovich has not yet managed to rise to significant heights - he currently only holds the position of Famusov’s secretary, but he holds out hope for a quick career advancement, which arouses Famusov’s special love.

Pavel Afanasyevich allocated a room in his house for Molchalin, although it is difficult to call it a full-fledged room: it is most likely a small closet, but Molchalin, deprived of fate, is quite happy with this.

Alexey Stepanovich has been working as Famusov’s personal secretary for three years now, however, he is registered in a completely different position - based on official data, Molchalin works in the archives department, but in practice this is a fictitious thing, he is just listed there. However, not without benefit for himself - during such service he received three awards.

Of course, this was Famusov’s exceptional work. This situation is also beneficial to Famusov and allowed him to get out of a difficult situation - he provided himself with a good secretary and, moreover, he had to pay out of his own pocket.

The text mentions Molchalin's rootlessness, but there is no exact explanation. Based on this, several assumptions can be made regarding the essence of such a statement. The first is that Molchalin is a man of simple origin, the second is that he is an orphan, that is, a person without a family.

The writer portrays Alexei Stepanovich Molchalin as an adult man. At the same time, Molchalin rejects even the possibility of his infantility. Famusov, for whom the hero serves, takes advantage of Alexei’s position. Officially, the hero works in the “Archives” because Famusov agreed so. However, this is a simple formality for obtaining ranks. Molchalin’s real place of work is Famusov’s house. The latter provides its employee with food, drink, shelter, and career advancement. Molchalin, apparently, knows how to please Famusov.

Before working with Famusov in Moscow, the hero lived in Tver. Molchalin, of course, is not a rich man at all. The simplicity of the hero’s origin makes us make the assumption that Molchalin is a tradesman. According to the Table of Ranks, the hero holds the rank of collegiate assessor. This rank gives the right to nobility, which is what Molchalin achieves. The man even manages to receive awards, in which Molchalin was probably helped by his master.

Symbolism of the surname

The image of Molchalin carries symbolic features. This is primarily due to his last name. It is based on the verb “to remain silent.” And indeed, this word is an accurate reflection of the essence of Molchalin. He is Famusov's silent and faceless servant. Even his step is devoid of any sounds. It seems that he wants to be as unnoticed and quiet as possible.

From time to time, Alexey Stepanovich moves on tiptoe so as not to disturb his household. This behavior is one of the ways to achieve his life goal.

The purpose of life

While most aristocrats are devoid of purpose in life and lazily live their lives without filling it with any meaning, Molchalin’s life has a pronounced character. His goal is to succeed and achieve significant achievements in life. Achievements in the eyes of Molchalin are in no way connected with improving the lives of ordinary, ignoble people or promoting the development of morality of the aristocracy. Alexey Stepanovich’s highest goal is to become a full-fledged representative of high society.

Molchalin is ready to die for the next promotion, so he serves Famusov with all his might - it is Pavel Afanasyevich who can help him achieve this goal. And Molchalin had already overcome the first step on this steep ladder - thanks to his ability to suck up and please the Famusovs, he was given the rank of collegiate assessor. Thus, Alexey Stepanovich turned from a commoner into a poor nobleman. Molchalin found a special charm in the fact that his rank tended to be inherited.

Molchalin and Sofya Famusova

You can further improve your position in society through a profitable marriage. For this, girls needed to have a charming figure and an equally charming face. In the case of the male half of society, it was enough to have a helpful character. It is the ability to serve well that becomes the criterion for favor. Despite his low origins and financial insolvency, in the eyes of Famusov, Alexei Stepanovich looks like a more attractive son-in-law than the noble aristocrat Chatsky. The fact is that Pavel Afanasyevich believes that such wealth and diligence, which Molchalin possesses, can compensate for his origin and achieve an advantageous position in society. To achieve a final advantage over other young people, Molchalin can only accumulate significant capital or start attacking Famusov from another front - if Sonya falls in love with Alexei Stepanovich, then she will be able to convince her father to make a decision in his favor.

Alexey Stepanovich accelerates this process by beginning to show interest in Famusov’s daughter, Sophia.

The relationship between young people follows the best traditions of platonic love - Molchalin does not allow anything unnecessary in relation to the girl.

Thus, he demonstrates his respectful attitude towards Sophia and the seriousness of his intentions. In addition, such behavior contributes to achieving his goal with marriage - Molchalin does not need to possess Sonya, he needs to become her husband, so debauchery is an unacceptable thing for him.

We propose to compare the monologues of Chatsky and Famusov in A. Griboedov’s comedy “Woe from Wit”.

In communicating with Sophia, Alexey Stepanovich adheres to the same principle as with her father - he pleases her all the time. Naturally, Molchalin’s behavior differs sharply from the behavior of other aristocrats towards her. Young people of noble origin are not ready to grovel before Sonya the way Molchalin does, which is why they do not arouse such interest in her.

To some extent, Famusova’s attachment to Molchalin was caused by the lack of proper candidates - after Chatsky’s departure, the girl chooses the least evil from the remaining ones. At the time of the emergence of attachment and the beginning of communication, Sonya did not experience enthusiasm and love attraction for Molchalin, her act could be regarded as revenge on Chatsky, but as a result, such an act did not bring the desired effect, Sonya eventually got used to Molchalin’s oddities and began to perceive them as ordinary things . In Molchalin, Sonya has found a wonderful “living toy”; he not only treats her with adoration (which, as it turned out, was feigned), but is also ready to fulfill any of her desires.

Chatsky and Molchalin

The conflict between Chatsky and Molchalin was a priori predetermined - an honest and noble aristocrat cannot understand and accept the position of Famusov and his society, Alexey Stepanovich, who is not only dependent on Famusov, but also strives to become like them, could become an excellent opponent to Chatsky , if he had more persistence and individuality, however, since Alexey Stepanovich is used to being a silent observer and never revealing his attitude to certain situations, there is no heated discussion between the characters.

In addition, the insightful Chatsky notices Alexei Stepanovich’s strange attitude towards Sonya Famusova. Over time, he discovers Molchalin's true attitude towards the girl and his ghostly love. Chatsky is amazed by Molchalin’s double standards - on the one hand, he is ready to flatter immensely, but, on the other hand, he immediately does not neglect to publicly announce his disdain and even disgust for those whom he idolized just a couple of minutes ago.

Attempts to open the eyes of others to the fallacy of their opinions do not lead to anything good - it is more flattering for others to perceive their superiority than to realize that all the respect towards them was a farce.

Molchalin and Lisa

No matter how two-faced Molchalin may be, he still sometimes reveals his true feelings and intentions. This state of affairs is not exposed in discussions or small talk (since he tries in advance not to take part in them).

So, for example, Alexei Stepanovich develops a feeling of affection and love towards the maid in Famusov’s house, Liza. The hero of the story is faced with a choice - to play his role as Sonya's lover to the end or to confess his feelings to Lisa.

Unfortunately, as a dishonest person, Molchalin is not limited to this state of affairs and cares for two girls at once.

Thus, Alexey Stepanovich Molchalin is a classic version of a character playing a double game. This trend continues in the case of Molchalin in all types of activities. He is hypocritical towards Famusov and plays with Sonya’s feelings.

Alexei Stepanovich is characterized by resigned and silent servility. For the sake of moving up the social ladder, he is ready to do even the most immoral acts. The image of Molchalin has become a household name and is used in relation to a dishonest, hypocritical person.

Character of Molchalin

The hero makes a double impression. On the one hand, Molchalin pleases everyone (the man is a real master at this), he is shy, helpful, timid, calm, timid, modest, quiet, “wordless.” He is characterized by accuracy, moderation, and lack of criticism of others. This is probably why they love him. But on the other hand, the hero is also characterized by duplicity and hypocrisy. Molchalin is considered a well-mannered and polite person; the hero evokes sympathy among those around him. Society does not see the true nature of the hero. On the contrary, in Molchalin they see a selfless person, ready to forget about his own interests for the sake of others.

However, Molchalin pleases and remains silent for the sake of self-interest, in order to achieve his goal. This was the parting word the father gave to the hero. The hero's behavior depends on the circumstances. For example, with Famusov’s daughter, the man behaves emphatically politely and modestly. But Molchalin does not truly love Sophia. The hero is in love with Lisa. However, there is no need to behave decently with a simple girl. The true face of Molchalin is seen, perhaps, only by Chatsky, who considers the assessor a stupid, cowardly and pathetic person. However, Vyazemsky, on the contrary, emphasizes the hero’s prudence and rational approach to life. Molchalin's soul is cold and callous. The maid Lisa later speaks about this.

Work:

Woe from mind

Molchalin Alexey Stepanych is Famusov’s secretary, living in his house, as well as an admirer of Sophia, who despises her in his heart. M. was transferred by Famusov from Tver.

The hero's surname expresses his main trait - “wordlessness.” It was for this that Famusov made M. his secretary. In general, the hero, despite his youth, is a full-fledged representative of the “past century”, since he has adopted its views and lives by its principles.

M. strictly follows his father’s behest: “to please all people without exception - the owner, the boss, his servant, the janitor’s dog.” In a conversation with Chatsky, M. sets out his life principles - “moderation and accuracy.” They consist in the fact that “at my age I should not dare to have my own judgment.” According to M., you need to think and act as is customary in “Famus” society. Otherwise they will gossip about you, and, as you know, “evil tongues are worse than pistols.” M.'s romance with Sophia is also explained by his willingness to please everyone. He obediently plays the role of an admirer, ready to read romance novels with Sophia all night long, listen to the silence and trills of nightingales. M. doesn’t like Sophia, but he can’t refuse to please his boss’s daughter.

A.S. Molchalin is Famusov’s secretary and enjoys his trust in official matters. He is not a nobleman by birth, but strives to make a career. Molchalin’s surname is justified by his behavior. “He’s on tiptoe and not rich in words,” says Chatsky. Molchalin is a seemingly modest young man. He plays the flute and loves sentimental poems. Sophia admires his kindness, compliance, meekness. She does not understand that all this is a mask that serves M-nu to achieve his life program.

The goal of M’s life is a brilliant career, rank, wealth. He sees the highest happiness in “taking awards and living a happy life.” For this, he chose the surest path: flattery, servility. If If Maxim Petrovich is a type of sycophant of the previous era , then Molchalin is a saint of the new time, acting more subtly and no less successfully. “He will reach the well-known levels, because nowadays they love the dumb,” Chatsky says about him with contempt for his mental abilities. Molchalin knows how he should behave and defines his tactics:

Firstly, to please all people without exception -

The owner, where he will live,

To the boss with whom I will serve,

To his servant, who cleans dresses,

Doorman, janitor, to avoid evil,

To the janitor's dog, so that it is affectionate.

Molchalin is in awe of Famusov, he speaks politely, adding “s”: “with papers, sir.” He curries favor with the influential Khlestova. He carefully prepares a game for her to play cards, admiring her dog:

Your Pomeranian is a lovely Pomeranian, no bigger than a thimble,

I stroked him all over, like silk fur.

He achieves his goal: Khlestova calls him “my friend” and “my dear.”

He behaves respectfully with Sophia, pretending to be in love, cares for her not because he likes her, but because she is the daughter of his boss and her location may be useful in his future career. He is a hypocrite with Sophia and with cynical frankness admits to Lisa that loves Sophia “by position.” Molchalin says that at his age he should not dare to have his own opinion.” And he declares why:

After all, you have to depend on others,

We are small in rank.

Adulation and servility to superiors is Molchalin’s life principle, which has already brought him a certain amount of success.

"Since I've been listed in the Archives,

He received three awards,” he tells Chatsky, adding that he has two talents: “moderation and accuracy.” Ready for the meanness of wealth and rank, he approaches others with the same standard. Thinking that Lisa’s favor is easy to buy, he promises to give her “a toilet of exquisite workmanship.” At the decisive moment, when Sophia interrupts his embrace with Liza, Molchalin begins to crawl humiliatingly on his knees in front of her, not because he felt guilty before Sophia, but because he was afraid for his career. When Chatsky appears, the completely cowardly Molchalin flees. This causes Chatsky’s indignation. “Molchalins are blissful in the world!” Chatsky exclaims with anger and indignation. And it was such an empty, insignificant person who was the culprit of the “millions of torments” of the smart, noble Chatsky, the culprit of the tragedy. Sophia.

MOLCHALIN is the central character of the comedy “Woe from Wit” (1824). The significance of this image was realized over the course of historical time. N.V. Gogol was the first to notice something important in the appearance of the modest secretary Famusov: “this face is aptly captured, silent, low, quietly making its way into people.” M.E. Saltykov-Shchedrin, in a series of essays “In an environment of moderation and accuracy,” makes M. an important official with an exotic feature: his hands are stained with the blood of innocent victims of his vital enterprise and “unconscious crimes.” M.’s place in the plot of “Woe from Wit” becomes clearer in relation to other characters in the play. Already in the very first minutes of the action, Griboyedov determines Sophia’s choice in favor of M. This involves all the heroes of the triangle (Chatsky - Sophia - M.) in difficult psychological relationships. M., who recently “was poring over in Tver,” is not understood by Sophia: she mistakes his caution for tact, his coldness for restraint of feelings, his lackey’s calculation for sobriety of mind. M. is also not understood by Chatsky, whose love for Sophia prevents him from assessing the seriousness of his opponent. Deeply interested in maintaining his attractiveness to Sophia and Famusov, M. is more affected by Chatsky's arrival than this shows. Chatsky's presence in the house threatens revelations that are mortally dangerous for him. M.'s accidental fall from a horse, Sophia's fright, and her fainting provoke M.'s activity, seeking to protect his reputation, his already developing career. He enters into a duel, giving Sophia categorical instructions to defend herself from Chatsky’s claims by all possible means and pushes Sophia to choose a method of revenge on Chatsky. Circumstances will prompt the heroine to the moment when the harshness dropped by her in a state of long-restrained irritation will take on the meaning of public opinion: “He is out of his mind...” M. is opposed to Chatsky not only as a rival in a love affair, but also with his entire life position. The conflict between Chatsky and M. accumulates the energy of collision until the third act of the play, when these characters meet in dialogue. She reveals Chatsky’s contemptuous inattention to M., which gives M. the advantage of being completely frank. This is one of the few scenes in the play where M. is sincere to the end. Sincere, but not appreciated by Chatsky as a worthy opponent. And only in the final scene in the hallway, at the denouement, will Chatsky understand what power the apologist of “moderation and accuracy” has achieved over Sophia. In Griboyedov's plot, M.'s love bliss collapses. But this is more an exception than a rule in the life of Famusov’s Moscow, for he is one of the pillars on which it rests. Among the first performers of the role of M. was the famous vaudeville actor N.O. Dur (1831). Productions of “Woe from Wit” in the second half of the 20th century show that M. cannot be considered a minor, minor character in the play, as happened over many decades of its stage history. M. is the second hero of Griboyedov’s plot, a serious opponent of Chatsky. This is exactly how this image was shown by K.Yu. Lavrov in the play by G.A. Tovstonogov (1962).

The work “Woe from Wit” by A.S. Griboyedov belongs to the comedy genre, the events took place at the beginning of the 19th century, in it the author showed images of Moscow nobles. The main theme of the work can be identified as the confrontation between the present century and the past, the difficult change of old ideals to new ones. On the side of the last century there was a significant number of people in comedy, one of them was a young nobleman who did not yet have any ranks of Molchalin. His task was to serve influential people.

Molchalin himself was a poor nobleman, born in Tver. In the comedy, he lived in Famusov’s house, who in turn took Molchalin as his secretary. Molchalin falls in love with Famusov's daughter and secretly meets with her. Famusov is an opponent of such relationships, because he believes that his daughter needs an influential husband with ranks. Although Molchalin does not meet these requirements, he has another quality that was appreciated by the inhabitants of Famusov’s house. He tried his best to serve in every possible way, and this attracted attention. That is why he managed to get the position of secretary, where business qualities are important, not honor.

In the work "Woe from Wit" the image of the protagonist can be called the standard behavior of a young nobleman surrounded by him. We see how he tries to serve, and if necessary, even humiliate himself in front of the influential guests of Famusov’s house, all this goes with the expectation that they can be useful in life and further service. Molchalin even took it for granted to praise the fur of Khlestova’s dog. To describe the hero, a quote is suitable that says that while “we are small in rank,” “we must depend on others.” He believes that while you are young, you don’t have to have your own opinion.

Famus society was famous for its boasting trait; at every opportunity it was common to praise new successes, and Molchalin was the same. He was a frequent guest of Princess Tatyana Yuryevna. Although Molchalin’s character and behavior were the same as everyone else in society, although he agreed with everyone and supported ideas, this did not stop him from resorting to meanness. For example, his love for Sophia was only a fiction and he did it for his own benefit. In fact, he opens up sincerely when communicating with the maid Lisa, whom he liked. And then another character is revealed to the reader, you see that there is duplicity in him, which means such a person is dangerous.

There is not a drop of respect or warmth in his soul and heart for Sophia. He takes a great risk when he begins to secretly see Famusov’s daughter, because he was constantly in a state of fear that they would be noticed. This expresses cowardice. For Molchalin, an important role was played by the fact that he was worried about the opinions of others, and he was also afraid of what others would think of him. This meanness and deceit of his destroys him, because he begins to harm those with whom he has been surrounded for a long time. He remembered the words of his father, which said to please everyone without exception, which Molchalin followed. Based on this, we can draw a conclusion about the hero’s attitude towards the description of the ideal of the last century, despite the fact that he is still young.

The author showed Molchalin as a worthy continuation and example of conservative nobles. Such a society is characterized by the fact that for them rank and money come first; these two categories allow them to evaluate others. As already mentioned, Molchalin was cunning and two-faced, these are the two main qualities that describe the hero.

Griboyedov touched upon a problem in his comedy that is still relevant today. After all, many cases are known when there were the same people who did not see anything in their way and were ready to go through everything for the sake of their goals. This topic will be relevant as long as there are people among us with the same values ​​as Molchalin and his society.

Essay on the topic Molchalin

The comedy “Woe from Wit,” written by Alexander Sergeevich Griboyedov from 1822 to 1824, tells the story of secular society and life of those times. One of the central characters of the work is Alexey Stepanovich Molchalin, a man from the common people, striving for career growth.

Molchalin seems to be a decent young man, distinguished by his kindness and modesty. But in fact, all these qualities are just a mask that the hero uses to achieve his goals. His dream is a career, high rank and wealth. Respect among high society is the limit of his happiness. There are many different ways to achieve these goals. But Molchalin chooses the fastest and most negative one. He takes steps towards his dream with the help of flattery, hypocrisy and duplicity. He does it so subtly and imperceptibly that many may envy.

The hero worked as a secretary for Famusov, a rich and respected man. He did all the work conscientiously, spoke kindly and carefully, which is why Famusov liked him. He treated his master's daughter, Sophia, even better and even dared to play a young man in love. Naturally, he does not experience any high feelings towards the girl. On the contrary, he despises her and establishes relationships solely for his own benefit. Once, having offended a girl, he throws himself at her feet. The reason for this was far from repentance, but the fear of losing the trust of his master Famusov. Another person who was lucky enough to hear lies from Molchalin was Khlestova. He kindly played cards with her and complimented her dog. In fact, people are very pleased with such behavior towards them. Molchalin showed hypocrisy and helpfulness towards everyone living in the house: from servants to management. This was the hero's plan, which he strictly adhered to.

Thus, Molchalin in Griboedov’s comedy is a negative character. The reader cannot see any positive traits of the hero, but sees only hypocrisy and the desire to achieve a dubious goal through dirty means. With the help of this character, the author reveals a serious problem that still exists today. People who do not strive for anything high, but for fame and money, are ready to go over their heads and put on a mask of sincerity. Usually, having achieved their goals, such people live unhappy and lonely.

Option 3

In his comedy "Woe from Wit" Griboyedov talks about the nobles of Moscow in the 19th century, it was then that society split into conservatives and those who were impressed by the ideas of the Decembrists. The main idea of ​​the work is the contrast between the present century and the past century, the replacement of outdated ideals of the nobles with completely new ones.

There are a huge number of supporters of old ideals in comedy. Admirers of the old principles are weighty and significant people in society, such as the landowner Famusov, Colonel Skalozub, and the younger generation, who are simply forced to serve the “old men,” also serve the old nobles. Molchalin is one of these young people who is forced to serve the old nobles with their orders.

Molchalin himself is a poor nobleman, born in Tver, he lives in the house of Famusov, who gave him the rank of assistant and hired him as a secretary. Molchalin is also the lover of Famusov’s daughter, but Famusov himself does not know about this. The father does not want to have a son-in-law like Molchalin, because in Moscow it is customary to have rich relatives. Famusov appreciates in people the desire to serve him, and this is how Molchalin, with the help of his helpfulness, receives such positions.

In this play, the image of Molchalin very accurately corresponds to the nature of the command of a young, fragile nobleman in an influential society. Molchalin tries to curry favor with distinguished guests in Famusov’s house as much as possible, because they can be useful for his further career growth. The young nobleman has sunk to the point where he begins to praise the fur of Khlestova’s dog. He believes that lower-ranking nobles should thus earn respect from their elders.

He, like all the characters in this comedy, considers it his duty to brag and be proud of his successes in career advancement. Molchalin is excellent at establishing connections with the people he needs, who can help him in his career. Molchalin brings enormous damage to the society in which he is located. He also deceives Famusov’s daughter, because he is courting her only for the sake of service to her father. He is the kind of person who will stop at nothing to achieve his goal, and is capable of causing enormous damage to the society in which he is located.

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The great comedy of A. S. Griboedov, which appeared at the beginning of the 19th century, opens a new stage in the development of Russian literature. The characters created by the playwright have historical, literary and universal significance. The author's undoubted find is the image of Molchalin, which absorbed the features of a socio-psychological type, which, unfortunately, was destined for a long life in Rus'.

The type of this hero can be said to be one of the most common in Russian literature. But the very first meeting with him takes place in the play by A.S. Griboyedov "Woe from Wit". The author's merit is the creation of the literary type of Molchalin, which became a major acquisition of social thought. Griboyedov showed great power of journalistic generalization. The author elevated the little official - secretary Famusov - into a symbol of a significant socio-political group, tightly linking “silence” with “Famusovism”. Creating the character of Molchalin, Griboyedov showed the influence of bureaucratic morality on human development and behavior. From childhood, the hero was taught slavish servility to the powers that be. Fulfilling his father's behest helped him to “win awards and live happily.” But, on the other hand, he, as a minor provincial official, had no other choice. Molchalin is a master in the art of raising a handkerchief, remaining silent when he is scolded, for this he received three awards, the rank of assessor and is on friendly terms with many influential people.

At the first meeting, it is indeed difficult to determine the real face of Molchalin. We see a timid and shy young man. Sophia, who is in love, endows him with a lot of advantages. “The hero of her novel” is “both insinuating and smart,” he is “ready to forget himself for others,” “compliant, modest, quiet.” However, we gradually become convinced that such Molchalin is only a figment of Sophia’s imagination. If Chatsky underestimated Molchalin, then Sophia clearly overestimated him. So who, finally, is Molchalin: a humble modesty, clumsy and funny in his servility, or a successful scoundrel? “Warmed up” by Famusov, for several years spent in Moscow, Molchalin managed to make a good career: he received the rank of assessor and “three awards”, was enrolled in the archives, managed to establish the necessary connections, and make profitable acquaintances. He, like Skalozub, “has many channels to get rank.” Molchalin does not disdain anything:

There he will stroke the pug in time,
It’s time to rub the card...

Showing the confrontation between Chatsky and Famusov, A.S. Griboedov raises the problem of the “present century” and the “past century.” These heroes are people of different generations, while Chatsky and Molchalin are the same age, but the contrast between them is even sharper. Each of them shows one of the options for the path that young people can choose: the path of truth-seekers and rebels (Chatsky’s path) and the path of the “wordless” who will reach the “degrees of the famous” (Molchalin’s path).

Molchalin became a common noun for meanness and lackeyness. He sincerely does not realize how, being a minor official, one can think and feel independently. Sympathizing with Chatsky that he suffered “failure in his career,” Molchalin tries to help him if he, in turn, follows the path of all the silent ones. Dumb and always ready to serve, he has such capital that under any circumstances gives him and his descendants the right interest: moderation and accuracy. He also has one more property - his readiness to please to the death anyone who “feeds and waters, and sometimes bestows rank.” He, if necessary, can take on the appearance of a lover “to please the daughter of such a man.” And, of course, Molchalin is on the side of “everyone” in the conflict with the troublemaker Chatsky. It is precisely in the dialogue between Chatsky and Molchalin that the social and spiritual confrontation between a free-thinking person and an environment of moderation and accuracy is finally formed, which will be resolved by slandering Chatsky and his expulsion. Griboyedov forces Molchalin to open up and, with some challenge, set out the everyday rules of the circle to which he is close. “Moderation and accuracy”, “I am not a writer”, “at my age I should not dare to have my own opinion”, “after all, one must depend on others” - these are the foundations of Molchalin’s well-being, from which he will never deviate.

But Chatsky was mistaken in his assessment of Molchalin, in his true role. For him, Molchalin is a nonentity, “the most pitiful creature.” Chatsky is contemptuously arrogant. But only. He never thought that Molchalin could be his rival. And even when he finds out about the connection between Sophia and Molchalin, he does not take it seriously. After all, in Griboyedov’s time, the Molchalins mostly evoked contempt. They could not become worthy opponents of the advanced nobles. Molchalin was an unworthy subject; he did not deserve serious attention.

He sacredly fulfills his father’s behest “to please all people without exception.” Flattery is Molchalin’s main weapon. He flatters everyone who can be useful, and is even ready to play the role of a lover, counting on Famusov’s mercy. However, the mask of humbleness quickly falls away from him when he speaks to those whom he considers inferior to himself. With Liza, Molchalin tries to look like a rake, forgetting about shyness. He doesn’t value Chatsky at all, so he allows himself to give the latter advice. In the eyes of Molchalin, Chatsky is a loser, so you can behave contemptuously and condescendingly with him. It would seem that before us is a completely unsightly and useless person, but, alas, we, following Chatsky, are forced to admit that “Silent people are blissful in the world.”

And apparently the time of the silent people had already arrived, that is, the era of the silent people - the time of the reign of Nicholas I, the time of ranks and officials. Then comes hatred of the silent ones. But it didn’t come right away, but when it turned out that the eternally young old men of Russian history were them. After all, Molchalin remained, but Chatsky left the stage, Onegin passed, Pechorin died, Rudin, Rakhmetov, Bazarov left. He became invulnerable. It turned out to be impossible to overcome such people - they are strong with someone else's strength, they cannot be killed with contempt, because their dignity lies in someone else's authority. K. A. Polevoy wrote: “... look around: you are surrounded by silent people.”

But the Molchalins, at first glance, are not so harmless and funny in their efforts to please; they should not be underestimated. As time has shown, the Molchalins are tenacious and invulnerable. Most likely, it is not the hero himself who is terrible, but the situation when the Chatskys suffer, and the Molchalins are blissful when the opportunists win. But how long will Molchalin be exposed, humiliated, and frightened at the end of the play? Such people are “reborn” quickly, which is very sad and regrettable. They do not repent of their actions and the worst thing is that they do not realize the depth of their fall.

The comedy “Woe from Wit” by A. Griboyedov was created in 1824. Due to the revealing content of the work, it was published only in 1833, and even then selectively. Only in 1862 did a full-fledged comedy see the light. In his work, the author wished to speak out about what pained him after so many years of contemplating the hypocrisy and sycophancy of the people around him. The comedy “Woe from Wit” is a confrontation between an intelligent, thinking, active, open and honest person and vile, vile, immoral people who care only about wealth and rank.

General characteristics of Molchalin A.S.

Famusov's faithful dog, Sophia's dear friend, a sycophant, a hypocrite, a rootless official, Chatsky's main antagonist - that's who Alexey Stepanych Molchalin is. The characterization of the central character of the comedy shows a typical representative on whom serfdom-bureaucratic morality had its corrupting influence. Since childhood, Molchalin was taught to be servile, to please everyone around him: the boss, the owner, the butler, the janitor’s dog, in the end, so that he would be affectionate.

The character's character is fully revealed by his self-explanatory surname. Basically, Alexey Stepanych is silent, suffers humiliation, screams, even unfair reproaches. He understands perfectly well that a rootless official cannot live in this callous and cynical society without the support of those in power, so he pleases everyone around him, trying not to quarrel with anyone, to be good for everyone, and he succeeds excellently. The author of the comedy is sad that society is teeming with such heroes who know how to remain silent where necessary, stroke the dog of an influential lady, say a compliment, lift a scarf and for all this receive formal awards and ranks, while in reality remaining servants.

Quote from Molchalin

Secretary Famusov is characterized by different characters in the comedy: Chatsky, Sofia, Famusov, Lisa. Someone speaks of him as a modest, handsome, quiet and timid person, ready to endure all humiliation and reproaches. Some heroes of the work guess about his low soul, and only a few see Molchalin’s true face.

Sophia sees in Alexei Stepanych a fictitious image: “I’m ready to forget myself for others,” “the enemy of insolence, - always shy, timid.” The girl thinks that Molchalin behaves shyly because he is modest by nature, not suspecting that this is just one of his masks. “He served under his father for three years, he often gets angry to no avail, but he disarms with his silence, forgives out of the kindness of his soul,” Alexei’s slavish obedience speaks of his certain position in life, which involves remaining silent, enduring, but not getting involved in a scandal.

Molchalin reveals his true face to Lisa: “Why are you and the young lady modest, but the maid a rake?” Only her secretary tells her about his true feelings for Sophia. Chatsky also guesses about Alexei’s duplicity and pettiness: “He will reach the well-known levels, because nowadays they love the dumb,” “Who else will settle everything so peacefully! There he’ll pet a pug at the right time, here he’ll wipe a card at the right time...” A brief description of Molchalin shows that his silence is not at all a manifestation of stupidity. This is a clearly thought out plan for obtaining benefits.

Speech characteristics of Molchalin

The manner of conversation of Alexey Stepanych very successfully characterizes his inner appearance. Toadying, humility, and servility are the main characters, so in his speech one can discern diminutive words, self-deprecating intonations, exaggerated courtesy, and an obsequious tone. To please people who are richer and higher in rank, the hero adds the prefix “s” to words. Molchalin is mostly silent and tries not to engage in conversation unnecessarily. He shows his eloquence only in front of Lisa, in front of whom he can take off his mask and show his true face.

The hero's attitude towards Sophia

The ability to please helps in moving up the career ladder - that’s exactly what Molchalin thinks. The character’s description suggests that he even started an affair with Sophia for the reason that she is Famusov’s daughter, and a close relative of the boss cannot be denied fulfilling his whims. The girl herself came up with a hero and imposed her feelings on Alexey Stepanych, making him a platonic admirer. In order to please the lady, he is ready to abandon his native bourgeois dialect and communicate in the language of silent glances and gestures. Molchalin sits silently next to Sophia all night long, reading novels with her, only because he cannot refuse the boss’s daughter. The hero himself not only does not love the girl, but also considers her a “deplorable theft.”

Comparative characteristics of the images of Molchalin and Famusov

The problem of bureaucracy is one of the main issues addressed in the comedy "Woe from Wit." Molchalin's characterization gives the reader an idea of ​​a new type of official of the early 19th century. He and Famusov belong to the world of bureaucrats, but still are not alike because they belong to different centuries. The master is an elderly rich man with an established opinion and an established career. Alexey Stepanych is still young, so he works as a minor official and is just climbing the career ladder.

In the 19th century, a new type of Russian bureaucrat emerged who abandoned the commandments of the “fathers.” This is exactly what Molchalin’s characterization shows. "Woe from Wit" is a story about a socio-political conflict that expresses the situation of society. Be that as it may, Molchalin still belongs to Famusov’s entourage, and just like his boss, he admires rank and wealth.

Molchalin and Chatsky

A comparative description of Molchalin and Chatsky shows how different they are. Molchalin, Famusov’s secretary, does not have a noble origin, but has developed his own tactics, following which he builds a reliable and comfortable future for himself. You can’t get a word out of him once again, but he knows how to run on tiptoe, work with papers and appear at the right moment, and many people like this. Silent, helpful, spineless people were valued in the era of Nicholas I, so someone like Molchalin was expected to have a brilliant career and awards for services to their homeland. In appearance, he is a modest young man, Sophia likes him with his meekness and compliance, pleases Famusov with patience and silence, curries favor with Khlestova and only shows his true face to the maid Liza - vile, two-faced, cowardly.

Chatsky is the embodiment of the image of the Decembrists, a romantic nobleman who reveals the evils of serfdom. It is his antagonist who is Molchalin. The characterization of the hero shows that he embodies the features of an advanced thinking person of the early 19th century. Chatsky is convinced that he is right, therefore, without hesitation he preaches new ideals, reveals the ignorance of the current rich, exposes their false patriotism, inhumanity, and hypocrisy. This is a freethinker who fell into a rotten society, and this is his trouble.

The hero's life principles

Griboyedov's hero Molchalin became a common name for lackeys and meanness. The character's description shows that Alexey Stepanych, from childhood, programmed a plan in his head on how to get out among the people, build a career, and achieve a high rank. He walked along his path without turning to the sides. This person is absolutely indifferent to the feelings of other people, he will not lend a helping hand to anyone if it is not beneficial.

The main theme of the comedy

The theme of bureaucracy, which was raised by many writers in the 19th century, runs through the entire comedy “Woe from Wit.” The state bureaucracy kept growing and turning into a serious machine, grinding down all the rebels and working in a way that was beneficial to it. Griboyedov in his work showed real people, his contemporaries. He set himself the goal of ridiculing certain human traits, showing the tragedy of society of that era, and the writer did it perfectly.

History of the comedy

Once a rumor spread throughout Moscow that Alexander Griboyedov University professor Thomas Evans, alarmed by this news, decided to visit the writer. In turn, Griboyedov told his interlocutor a story that happened to him at one of the balls. He was tired of the antics of society praising some Frenchman, an ordinary talker who had done nothing remarkable. Griboyedov could not restrain himself and expressed to those around him everything that he thought about them, and someone from the crowd shouted out that the writer was a little out of his mind. Alexander Sergeevich was offended and promised to create a comedy, the heroes of which would be those unlucky spiteful critics who called him crazy. This is how the work “Woe from Wit” was born.