Silent's past in the comedy Woe from Wit. The actions of Molchalin in the comedy Woe from Wit. Characteristics of Molchalin in “Woe from Wit” (with quotes). General characteristics of the hero

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 will pet a pug at the right time, here he will 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. Griboedov 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.

WORTH FROM MIND

(Comedy, 1824; published with omissions - 1833; completely - 1862)

Molchalin Alexey Stepanych - the main negative character of the comedy, the role of a stupid lover; Sophia's heartfelt friend, who despises her in his heart; the shadow of Famusov, the antagonist of Chatsky, whose fiery talkativeness is unfavorably contrasted with Silently’s wordlessness (emphasized, moreover, by the “silently speaking” surname). Transferred by Famusov from Tver, thanks to his patronage he received the rank of collegiate assessor; is listed “according to the archives”, but in fact is the personal, home secretary of the “benefactor”; Here, in the closet, he lives. M. strictly follows his father’s covenant (directly preceding the one that Pavel Ivanovich Chichikov will receive from his father): “to please all people without exception - / the Master<...>/ To the boss<...>/ To his servant<...>/ To the janitor’s dog, so that she is affectionate.” In the ball scene (no. 3) he helpfully praises the Spitz of the old woman Khlestova, Famusov’s sister-in-law - which deserves her favor. (But not respect: during the journey - D. 4, appearance 8 - Khlestova disdainfully points M. to his place - intermediate between the secretary and the servant: “here is your closet, / There is no need for a farewell, go, the Lord is with you”; M . is not offended.)

In a conversation with Chatsky (d. 3, appearance 3), who decided to figure out why M. captivated Sofia, he formulates his life rules - “Moderation and accuracy”; “At my age I shouldn’t dare / Have my own judgment.” These views are fully consistent with the unwritten Moscow norm. Throughout the comedy, the same plot motif of the fall is repeated; Chatsky, as soon as he appeared in the house, talks about how he “fell many times” along the way; Skalozub recalls the story of Princess Lasova, “a horsewoman, a widow,” who recently fell to pieces and is now looking for a husband “for support”; then, during the ball, Repetilov reports about his fall: “I’m hastening here, / Grabbing, I hit my foot on the threshold / And stretched out to my full height.” But only M.’s fall from a horse (d. 2, yavl. 7), at the news of which Sofia faints, “rhymes” with the “exemplary” fall of Famusov’s uncle Maxim Petrovich: “He fell painfully - he got up well.” This parallel finally fits M. into the unchanging Moscow tradition against which Chatsky rebels.

But, repeating the trajectory of the fall of Maxim Petrovich, M., in turn, is also endowed with a plot double, repeating his negative traits in an even more vulgar and reduced form. This is Anton Antonich Zagoretsky - “the man<...>secular, / An out-and-out swindler, a rogue,” who is tolerated in society only because he is “a master at serving.”

The need to tirelessly “please” also gave birth to M.’s romance with Sophia, in which he obediently plays the role of a platonic admirer suggested (if not imposed) by her, ready to read novels from his beloved all night long, listen to silence and express himself in a language that is not characteristic of him (philistine) ( “I have three little things...”), but in the literary-salon, “Karamzinist” language of silent gestures and refined feelings. (So ​​his “speaking” surname can be read in two ways: it also points to the role of the loving “silent man” in Sofia’s plot.) This novel does not and cannot pursue “career” goals; M. does not expect to earn even greater favor from Famusov in this way. On the contrary, he risks losing his favor as a result of a secret “romance”. But he is not able to refuse to “please” the daughter of “such a person.” And, feeling hostility towards “our deplorable thief,” she takes on the appearance of a lover - because that’s what she wants.

And therefore, perhaps Chatsky is right, who at the moment of M.’s “exposure” (invited by the maid Liza to Sofia’s room, he again flirts with the servants in the dark and speaks contemptuously about Sofia, not knowing that she hears everything; an angry Famusov immediately appears ) sarcastically remarks: “You will make peace with him after mature reflection. / Destroy yourself, and why! / Think, you can always / Take care of him and swaddle him, and send him to work. / A boy-husband, a servant-husband, one of the wife’s pages - / The high ideal of all Moscow husbands.”

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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 A. Griboyedov’s comedy “Woe from Wit.”

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 offer a comparison in A. Griboyedov’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 affection for 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.

A.S. Griboyedov finished his legendary comedy in 1824. But, despite all efforts, it was not possible to publish it. The censor did not let it through, since the nature of the play is accusatory. It spread through the lists and was a great success among the young intelligentsia. Only in 1833 the play was published in an abridged form.

The author presented the reader with a galaxy of vivid images of the Moscow nobility of the 19th century. Most of them are still relevant today. The person who “is blissful in the world” is especially tenacious. This character personifies veneration for rank, careerism, and hypocrisy.

General characteristics of the hero

Molchalin is a young man of unknown origin. He comes from Tver, his parents became impoverished. Thanks to his efficiency and cunning, he ends up in the capital. Famusov gives him the rank of collegiate assessor and makes him his secretary. This position at that time gave hereditary nobility, regardless of material well-being. But the employer himself calls him “rootless,” although he settles him in his house.

Alexey Stepanovich, like most heroes of classical literature, bears a telling surname. He is truly silent. The quality is inconsistent. Sophia, in love, considers it a virtue. They say the priest is angry, but Alexey does not argue, does not object, the hot-tempered master calms down. Chatsky considers this stupidity, lack of will, and self-respect. For Molchalin, this is just a cunning maneuver, opportunism. He doesn't mind.

The hero is young, the same age as Chatsky. But they are similar only in age.

Chatsky and Molchalin

These two social types are antagonists. People like Molchalin are ready to do anything to achieve high ranks and position in society. They don’t disdain anything. Lies, hypocrisy, ingratiation, sycophancy, humiliation, pretense - everything is used.

“Moderation and accuracy” are the only talents of Alexei Stepanovich. But he is clearly being modest, forgetting that adaptability, cunning, and business acumen are also a kind of talent.

Molchalin does not recognize his right to his own opinion. While he is in a small rank, it is necessary to depend on others. Therefore, he actively mimics and adapts.

Chatsky is a different person. He openly expresses his opinion in any environment. He sees no point in an empty service. He is ready to serve the cause, but not the persons. It's sickening to serve him. Famusov calls him a proud man and a fool. It is strange for a successful official to hear such speeches.

Molchalin, for the sake of profit, is ready to pretend in everything. Even in love.

Relation to Sophia

Pretending to be in love, Alexey becomes the friend of the owner’s daughter’s heart. She, in turn, endowed him with the features of heroes of French romance novels. She created the perfect image for herself.

Alexey Stepanych visits the young lady’s room at night. But he behaves indecisively, modestly, and does not allow liberties. As it turned out later, not because he was deeply in love and well-mannered, but out of indifference. But he shows ardor and discourtesy towards Lisa. Shyness with the young lady and vulgar behavior with the maid. This contrast speaks volumes.

He looks after Sophia only to curry favor: “to please the daughter of such a man.” He himself doesn’t really understand why. There is no love, he doesn’t count on a wedding. Molchalin is a coward, insanely afraid of Famusov’s anger, of what he finds out about the affair.

Molchalin and guests

The ball in the Famusovs’ house is the key scene of the work. The family is officially in mourning after the death of their uncle. Therefore, only “our own” people are convened. It is necessary to give points to maintain connections.

Molchalin is equally amiable with all representatives of the “past century”. He finds an approach to everyone. Sophia saw kindness in this ability to adapt. They say Alexey Stepanovich found friendship with everyone in the house. Chatsky also notices this: “Here he’ll pet a pug in time, there he’ll rub a card just right.” And, indeed, it comes to the point of absurdity. Molchalin strokes and praises Lady Khlestova’s Pomeranian. And then he plays cards with the old people all evening, adjusting, playing along. Knowing their cool temperament.

The young man does everything on time. He seems to anticipate a social storm. As soon as a scandal brews in the house, he disappears into his room a minute before the owner appears.

“He will reach known degrees...”

All this will certainly help the hero in achieving his goals. He will not be embarrassed by mistakes or falls. There is no shame or timidity in him. From childhood, Alexey was instilled with the law of the need to please even the master’s janitor and his dog. And sycophancy, the ability to “bend too far” is highly valued in the capital.

“Woe from Wit” is an immortal comedy by A. S. Griboedov. In it, he truthfully and mercilessly portrayed the “picture of morals” of his contemporary aristocratic society. According to the author, in his work there are “25 fools for one sane person.” And one of them in the play is Alexey Stepanovich Molchalin. Our article will be devoted to the characteristics of this character.

The place of the hero in comedy

Molchalin in “Woe from Wit” is a typical representative of the role that the author assigns to him in the comedy is of extreme importance. He, along with the main character, is a participant in both the love and socio-ideological confrontation of the characters. Alexey Stepanovich is not only a worthy successor to Famusov in business, but also a successful rival of Chatsky in love. It was him who, for an unknown reason, chose Sofia. The personal relationships of the characters in “Woe from Wit” are important, but more interesting to study is Molchalin’s attitude to service. After all, it is in this activity that the character of Alexei Stepanovich manifests itself most clearly.

General characteristics of the hero

Alexey Stepanovich holds a small position. He is Famusov's secretary too. Molchalin cannot boast of a noble origin, but he strives with all his might to become a “people person.” To do this, he chose an unmistakable tactic: “to please everyone... without exception.” Alexey Stepanovich does not distinguish between the master and his servant. He is impeccably courteous and polite with everyone. In relation to superior persons, Mochalin's devotion has no boundaries. He curries favor with Famusov and strives to serve Khlestova. Alexey Stepanovich is a mediocrity, an unscrupulous hypocrite and a sycophant. But none of the Famus guards notices this. The image of Molchalin is a portrait of a man who, with the help of simple techniques and tricks, makes his way into high society.

Molchalin and Chatsky

If most of the representatives of the Famusov guard (Famusov, Khlestova) are people of the older generation, then Molchalin is almost the same age as Chatsky. However, these representatives of the same generation are, in fact, completely different people. Their behavior in society and moral ideals are opposite. This is evidenced by Molchalin’s attitude towards service. By the hero’s own admission, he has only two talents - “moderation and accuracy.” He does not hide his own mediocrity; on the contrary, he is proud of it.

The behavior and worldview of Alexey Stepanovich is strictly regulated by his position. Since it is still very small, he has to be helpful and modest. Molchalin cannot do without influential patrons and is entirely dependent on them. Chatsky's independence seems obvious stupidity to Alexei Stepanovich.

Molchalin and Famusov

Unencumbered by special abilities, Alexey Stepanovich fits very organically into the conservative Famus society. Despite the enormous difference in social status and age, he has much in common with the famous Moscow “ace”. Molchalin’s attitude towards service is absolutely “Famusovsky”. He admits that he dreams of “winning awards and having fun.” He already has “three awards” in his arsenal, and each of them is a small step on the path to a brilliant career. Like Famusov, Alexey Stepanovich sacredly honors public opinion. Some quotes from Molchalin: “Ah! Evil tongues are worse than a pistol” and “At my age one should not dare/Have one’s own judgment” echo Famus’s final phrase: “Ah! My God! What will he say”/Princess Marya Alekseevna!”

Molchalin in love

Alexey Stepanovich skillfully pretends to be in love with the main character of the play. And here his desire to “please all people without exception” is manifested. Smart and selfless, Sophia does not notice the deception at all. She praises his shyness, respectfulness and timidity. Even the absence in him of “this mind... which is quick, brilliant...” seems to her to be a positive quality. Describing her lover to Chatsky, the girl does not notice how, according to I. A. Goncharov, “the portrait comes out vulgar.” Sofia has her own grief from her mind. Molchalin becomes the hero of a love story for her, in which she plays the role of a kind patroness.

However, Alexei Stepanovich has completely different inclinations. He likes the lively and cheerful Lisa much more. Moreover, he is not so stupid and believes that Sofia “Loved Chatsky once / She will stop loving me as much as he did.” But he is ready to give Lisa an intricately designed toilet and believes that this is enough to win love. Molchalin’s sober cynicism seems especially disgusting against the backdrop of the sincere feelings that he experiences.

The further fate of Molchalin

The loss of the main character's love does not mean complete defeat for Alexei Stepanovich. Despite the fact that he made a serious mistake, he managed to avoid Famusov's wrath. The “noble” father of the family splashed out all his indignation on the humiliated and insulted Sofia and the innocent Chatsky. The main character is thrown out of the door, accused of imaginary debauchery. They threaten to send Sofia to the village for misbehavior. Only Alexey Stepanovich leaves unnoticed. The comedy "Woe from Wit" does not give a definite answer regarding the fate of this hero. Molchalin will probably be able to pretend to be a victim of the current circumstances. It is impossible to stop his career. Chatsky was absolutely right when he predicted that Alexey Stepanovich would “reach the well-known levels.” The final scene of the comedy once again confirmed the sad truth that A. S. Griboyedov is trying to convey to his readers: “Silent people are blissful in the world,” while sincere and intelligent Chatskys become outcasts in society.

Images of famous writers

The image of a “wordless” man, gradually making his way up the career ladder, left no one indifferent. Belinsky in the mid-19th century wrote that Molchalin is a man who “does evil without benefit” according to a single “command of the soul.” N.V. Gogol found that the “face” of Alexei Stepanovich was “aptly captured.” This is an image of a low and silent personality, quietly making its way into people. Saltykov-Shchedrin's attitude towards service inspired the creation of a series of essays entitled "Among the Moderate and Accurate." I. A. Goncharov, in his sketch “A Million Torments,” noted that in his time (1871) Molchalin’s sycophancy became archaic and “hidden... in the darkness.” However, comparisons of various people with the wordless and helpful character in “Woe from Wit” are still actively used in journalism.

Conclusion

Molchalin's quotes are a reflection of his life position. The desire to be useful and gain confidence in the right person, who: “Feeds and waters”, and maybe “and gives rank...” is relevant at all times. Alexey Stepanovich is a typical opportunist, unencumbered by creativity and creativity, but abundantly endowed with practical acumen and worldly intelligence. It is absolutely impossible to fight him. In any situation, this person will be able to stay afloat. How long will silent mediocrity be valued in the service, and how long will a bright, lively and independent mind be subjected to unfair persecution? This question is posed by A.S. Griboyedov in the satirical comedy "Woe from Wit". Silent people occupy leading positions, penetrate into all spheres of life, infiltrate any society and, by their very existence, hinder its development. However, the answer to this question has not been found to this day. Perhaps over time this state of affairs will change.

In Griboyedov's comedy "Woe from Wit" several typical characters were created that are well recognizable regardless of the era. Molchalin belongs to such images, so now it would be appropriate to briefly consider the characteristics of Molchalin, paying attention to the features that Griboedov endowed this character with.

Biography of Molchalin from the comedy “Woe from Wit”

The play says very little about Molchalin’s life before Famusov’s appearance in the house. The reader learns that Alexey Stepanovich Molchalin is of humble origin, a poor young man.

Famusov took Molchalin as his secretary from Tver and was able to “get” him the rank of assessor, which was highly valued and equated to the army rank of major. Meanwhile, the hero is still listed in the Archives of the College of Foreign Affairs and manages to receive three awards. During Griboedov’s time, the “archive youths” were treated with some contempt, since young people who wanted to avoid military service in this way were enrolled there. This information already helps to create a characterization of Molchalin from the comedy “Woe from Wit.”

In the house of his patron, Molchalin lives on the first floor, where there are servants’ rooms and utility rooms. For the sake of his career, Molchalin starts an affair with Sophia, Famusov’s daughter, while simultaneously caring for the maid Lisa.

Molchalin and Sophia

What else is interesting about Molchalin’s characterization? He admits that he is not interested in Sophia. No matter how hard Molchalin tries to awaken his feelings for her, nothing works, the hero still remains cold: “As soon as I meet, I’ll leave the sheet.” He is chasing the boss's daughter, hoping to benefit. Knowing Sophia’s inconstancy (“they loved Chatsky once, they will stop loving me like him”), he is not worried, he is more worried about Famusov’s reaction to their relationship.

Literary scholars have repeatedly asked the question: what attracted Sophia to Molchalin, why did she choose him over the intelligent and noble Chatsky? Probably the answer is in the words of the heroine herself. Talking about Molchalin, she highlights his qualities such as helpfulness, attentiveness, shyness; he is ready to predict Sophia’s every desire and shows her his tender feelings.

Another quality that is important in Molchalin’s characterization is his hypocrisy and duplicity: pretending to love Sophia, he courts Lisa, seducing her with gifts and not hesitating to quite brazenly and obsessively express his feelings. In Famusov’s house, Molchalin wears the mask of a timid man in love until an accidental revelation occurs.

Characteristic qualities of Molchalin from the comedy “Woe from Wit”

Griboyedov uses a telling surname. Molchalin is silent, quiet, he does not dare to have his own opinion, for fear of not pleasing important people. His main goal is to gain the trust of those who can provide patronage through helpfulness and subservience to them. Chatsky notes bitterly: “The silent ones are blissful in the world.”

To understand the characterization of Molchalin in the comedy “Woe from Wit” by Griboyedov, it is necessary to remember what kind of covenant his father gives to Molchalin. The young man says that his father advised him to “please all people without exception”: the owner of the house where he lives, the boss, the boss’s servant, “the doorman, the janitor to avoid harm, the janitor’s dog to be affectionate.” The hero follows this principle. He tries to please Famusov, the “old men” at the balls. For this reason, he gives up dancing and fun, and spends the entire evening playing cards with elderly but noble gentlemen. Through helpfulness and modesty, Molchalin achieved good relations with the influential Tatyana Yuryevna and even the grumpy Khlestova.

Molchalin considers his main talents to be “moderation and accuracy.” Griboyedov in his comedy “Woe from Wit” shows: Molchalin is stupid, his mind is aimed only at searching for advantageous behavior, he is low, has no self-esteem, is capable of meanness and lies.

We hope that our article, which briefly presented the characterization of Molchalin from the comedy “Woe from Wit” by Griboyedov, helped you get to know this character better. Also read on our literary blog

Among the heroes of “Woe from Wit” (see summary, analysis and full text), Famusov stands at the top steps of the career and social ladder. Molchalin, being on the lower steps of the same ladder, tries to climb it, following the principles and life rules of his boss. Adulation and servility, common in Famus society, were instilled in him from childhood:

“My father bequeathed to me

says Molchalin,

First, please all people without exception;
The owner, where he will live,
The boss with whom I will serve,
To his servant, who cleans the dress,
Doorman, janitor, to avoid evil,
To the janitor’s dog, to be more affectionate.”

We can say that Molchalin really fulfills his father’s wills! We see how he tries to please the noble old woman Khlestova, how he praises and caresses her dog; and although Khlestova treats him very condescendingly (“Molchalin, here’s your little closet!”), however, she allows him to lead her by the arm, plays cards with him, calls him “my friend,” “dear,” and probably won’t refuse he has protection when he needs it. Molchalin is confident that he is going the right way and advises Chatsky to go “to Tatyana Yuryevna,” since, according to him, “we often find patronage there where we don’t aim.”

Woe from the mind. Maly Theater performance, 1977

Molchalin himself recognizes two “talents” in himself: “moderation” and “accuracy,” and there is no doubt that with such properties “he will reach the known levels,” as Chatsky notes, adding: “after all, nowadays they love the dumb.” Molchalin is truly dumb, since he not only does not express, but does not even have his own opinion - it is not for nothing that Griboedov called him “Molchalin”:

"At my age one should not dare
Have your own opinion,”

he says. Why risk “having your own judgment” when it is so much easier and safer to think, speak and act as the elders do, as Princess Marya Alekseevna does, as “everyone” does? And can Molchalin have his own opinion? He is undoubtedly stupid, limited, although cunning. This is a small soul. We see the baseness and meanness of his behavior with Sophia. He pretends to love her because he thinks it can be beneficial for him, and at the same time flirts with Lisa; he sneakily crawls on his knees in front of Sophia, begging for her forgiveness, and immediately after that he rushes to hide from Famusov’s anger, like a real coward. The pathetic type of Molchalin is depicted by Griboyedov with merciless realism.

“Silent people are blissful in the world.” The catchphrase lives on today. In the changed conditions of the modern world, it is not difficult to recognize and meet the “Molchalins”.

The image and characterization of Molchalin in the comedy “Woe from Wit” will help you understand which features have not undergone changes, who is hiding under the mask of a two-faced modesty.

Molchalin and Famusov

Alexey Stepanovich Molchalin is the secretary of Famusov, the owner of the house in which the events of the comedy unfold. Famusov sheltered a poor nobleman from Tver, gave him the rank of assessor, and officially placed him in the service of the “Archives”. Molchalin is not young, an adult man (“ you and I are not guys...") I am happy with this situation. He is listed in the archive service, receives promotions, but does not leave Famusov’s house. In Alexey, the owner saw the features of a business man. All the other servants in the house are relatives. The ability to please becomes the basis of Molchalin’s character. Simple by origin, probably from a family of burghers, having received the rank, Alexei acquired the right to hereditary nobility. During his 3 years of service, he managed to receive 3 awards. Such career growth is an indicator of a man’s patience and desire to rise by any means as high and quickly as possible.

Positive character traits

Griboedov represents real characters, so they have positive and negative qualities. Molchalin is no exception.

Modesty. Not many people can boast of the ability to communicate with people of different ages and levels of education. At Famusov's ball, Molchalin endures the whims and humiliations of grumpy old women, the stupidity of drunken revelers, and the affectation of young ladies.

Shyness and tact. Alexey, being next to the owner’s daughter, does not show arrogant or harsh actions. He tactfully tolerates Sofia’s attitude and skillfully hides his true feelings.

Taciturnity. The ability to remain silent is an unattainable quality for many. They get tired of their chatter. Here the situation is different:

“He will reach the known degrees, /After all, nowadays they love the dumb...”

Good manners and politeness. Molchalin behaves correctly in different situations. He easily apologizes, constructs phrases so that there is no desire to reproach or scold him.

Ability to make friends.

“Look, he gained the friendship of everyone in the house.”

Peacefully resolves any problems and disputes, for others he is able to forget about himself.

Calm. Molchalin is difficult to piss off. He does not express nervousness or anxiety even in the most difficult situations: a morning meeting with the owner, a fall from a horse.

Negative personality traits

Among representatives of high society, Alexey Stepanovich is shy and timid, but this is only a mask, a mask. Behind her are hidden features that do not make a man beautiful:

Helpfulness. Molchalin strives to please everyone around him, hoping to make a pleasant impression and benefit. His father bequeathed to him to please all people, but his son went further. He grovels not only before people, but also before the animals of his owners. The purpose of this behavior is to achieve advancement at work and in personal relationships.

Duplicity. A man’s behavior changes depending on the situation and environment. With whom he communicates based on status, he behaves this way. He is polite with Countess Khlestova, and cheeky with the maid.

Not the ability to love. Molchalin builds his relationships for profit. He loves “by position.” This feeling has become very well known in the modern era when affairs are started for deception and profit. The secretary skillfully plays the role of a lover, conquers an intelligent and educated girl. Sophia is ready to go against the rumors and opinions of her father for his sake, but the response is deceptive.

Lack of own opinion. Molchalin never spoke out. He chose the tactic of silence, which others like. Gradually I lost the opportunity to have my own opinions.

The image of Molchalin easily survived the centuries. For many, the value of money, office and position in society is higher than honesty, patriotism and human dignity. The more clearly the stratification of society by wealth becomes visible, the more “Molchalins” appear, ready to sell their souls for money.

The epithets that are awarded to Alexei Molchalin are a flatterer, a sycophant and a heartless rogue. The anti-hero of the comedy “Woe from Wit” appears before readers as a truly grotesque figure, whose description is full of sarcastic clichés. And according to the law of the genre, the unpleasant guy who stole the heart of a naive girl will be exposed. Alas, such a plot is most often only possible in plays.

History of creation

Molchalin is a colorful and vibrant character, with the help of whom he exposed the typical secular society of the times of serfdom. The writer created the first sketches of the comedy “Woe from Wit” back in 1820.

The results of the work, which lasted for four years, did not satisfy the author. In 1824, Griboyedov, while editing the resulting work, partially rewrote the character of Molchalin. The writer adds final scenes to the comedy, thereby exposing the secretary to the other characters.

The first attempts to publish “Woe from Wit” took place in December of the same year. Alas, censorship softened the characters’ remarks, smoothing over the acute social issues that Griboyedov raised. For example, Molchalin’s phrase “After all, you need to depend on others” was replaced with “After all, you need to keep others in mind.”

The comedy, not burdened by censor edits, was published only in 1831, and the play was specially translated into German. The Russian-language version of the poetic work appeared in Moscow in 1833.

Critical remarks about the play mainly affected the confrontation and Molchalin. Despite the secretary’s numerous censures, the hero’s life values ​​are clear and correspond to the spirit of the times. This was subtly noted:

“Chatsky says about Molchalin that he used to be so stupid that he is the most pitiful creature. Molchalin took it as a rule: moderation and accuracy. Let’s ask: what’s stupid and funny here?”

"Woe from Wit"

The plot of Alexander Griboedov's comedy develops on the territory of a landowner's estate. The elderly man’s household has long been established; the man is assisted in his work by a secretary, whose full name is Alexey Stepanovich Molchalin.

The man lives in his employer’s house, so he easily starts a relationship with Sofia Famusova. Young people spend a lot of time alone, talking about personal topics. Molchalin's biography undergoes drastic changes when Chatsky returns to his homeland.

The men disliked each other from the first minutes. Chatsky intends to understand the reasons for his beloved’s strange behavior. Molchalin is afraid that the secret affair will be revealed. The secretary does not want to lose his advantageous position, but the opportunity to become the son-in-law of a wealthy aristocrat is too tempting.

The girl herself has long lost interest in Chatsky and can hardly restrain herself from revealing her secret. When Molchalin falls from his horse, the younger Famusova cannot cope with her emotions. People around them begin to suspect that there is a secret connection between the heroes.

Having ridiculed the secretary's views on life, Chatsky incurs the girl's wrath. Gossip, intrigue and class prejudice surround people's relationships. Molchalin's well-fed life ends at the moment when, succumbing to feelings, the secretary opens his hands and confesses his insidious plans to the maid Liza.

The intimate conversation and unpleasant statements are heard by Sophia herself and the angry Chatsky. At this moment, the social problems of Russian officials and the love drama are mixed together. Molchalin is expelled from a rich house, and his rival bitterly concludes:

“Silent people are blissful in the world!”

Image and character

The debate about whether Molchalin is pitiful or terrible does not subside among connoisseurs of classical literature. A quotative description of the character will put everything in its place, because Griboedov expressed his attitude towards the character through the remarks of Molchalin himself and the people around him.

The hero of the comedy grew up in Tver and moved to Moscow in adulthood. The young man is poor, grew up in a middle-class family. His father also worked in service, so from childhood Molchalin was accustomed to groveling before the powers that be:

“My father bequeathed to me: firstly, to please all people without exception - the owner where I happen to live, the boss with whom I will serve.”

The secretary follows his father’s precepts, so he settles into Famusov’s house with ease and comfort. Officially, the young man is listed in the “archives,” but in fact, he performs the duties of the landowner’s personal assistant. During his service, the man managed to receive three awards, which Molchalin is boastfully proud of.

Illustration for the comedy "Woe from Wit"

Part of the secretary's characteristics are revealed through the character's appearance. An attractive young man with a slender figure. A man dresses neatly and takes care of his own manners:

“Helpful, modest, with a blush in his face...”

The suit is a unique way for Alexei Stepanovich to achieve his own goals in life. A modest frock coat, colored vest and light trousers help Molchalin move up the career ladder. After all, the status of a creeping servant allows you to achieve a promotion faster. And it’s easier for a quiet young man to gain the favor of the boss’s daughter.

The image of a modest and reserved person is exploited by Griboyedov even through the hero’s surname. This is what Chatsky thinks about the unpleasant hero:

“Have you not yet broken the silence of the seal?<...>However, he will reach the well-known levels, because nowadays they love the dumb.”

New sides of Molchalin’s character are revealed in the context of the secretary’s relationships with women. Ambition forces a man to look after Sophia, while Alexey is interested in the maid Lisa. The hero is not embarrassed that such actions are a sign of hypocrisy and duplicity. After all, in the struggle between the aristocracy and the bureaucracy, any methods are good.

Misbehavior has consequences for a liquid and resourceful person. Alexey Stepanovich was caught red-handed, and various subterfuges will not save the bureaucrat. However, even after excommunication from a rich house, Molchalin will easily arrange his own life, because, as he wrote:

“Molchalin is devilishly smart when it comes to his personal gain.”

Film adaptations

In 2000, a video version of “Woe from Wit” was released, directed by. The play was included in the 5 most expensive stage projects in Moscow. The image of Molchalin was embodied by the actor.

Quotes

“Often we find patronage there where we don’t intend.”

“This frankness would not harm us.”

“What can’t you do to please the daughter of such a man.”

“Ah, evil tongues are worse than a pistol!”

“I dare not pronounce my judgment.”