Learn About Alexander Pushkin: Age, Birthdate, Zodiac Sign & More

Early Life and Background

Alexander Sergeyevich Pushkin was born on June 6, 1799, in Moscow, Russia. He came from a noble family, with his great-grandfather having been an African slave who was brought to Russia and became a general in the army. Pushkin's father, Sergey Lvovich Pushkin, was a descendant of an ancient Russian noble family, while his mother, Nadezhda Osipovna Gannibal, was of Abyssinian descent.

Education and Literary Beginnings

Pushkin showed early signs of literary talent and published his first poem at the age of fifteen. He attended the Imperial Lyceum in Tsarskoye Selo, where he was influenced by the works of European Romantic poets such as Lord Byron and Friedrich Schiller. By 1820, Pushkin had joined radical literary circles in St. Petersburg and began publishing politically controversial works that caught the attention of the Russian government.

Love and Marriage

Pushkin married Natalya Goncharova, a young noblewoman, in 1831. Their marriage was not without its challenges, as Pushkin was known for his fiery temper and jealous nature. Despite this, the couple had four children together - two sons and two daughters.

Major Works

Pushkin is often credited as the founder of modern Russian literature and one of the greatest Russian poets of all time. His most famous works include the novel in verse Eugene Onegin, the play Boris Godunov, and the short novel The Captain's Daughter. Pushkin's writing is characterized by its mastery of language, lyricism, and exploration of themes such as love, nature, and Russian history.

Legacy and Influence

• Pushkin's literary works have had a lasting impact on Russian literature and culture, inspiring generations of writers, poets, and composers.
• His works have been adapted into numerous operas, ballets, and films, showcasing the enduring popularity of his writing.
• Pushkin's poetry and prose have been translated into multiple languages, making his work accessible to a global audience.
• He is often celebrated for his contributions to the Romantic movement in literature, with his lyrical style and exploration of human emotions resonating with readers across time and geography.

Notable Collaborations

Pushkin's literary works have inspired important musical compositions by renowned composers such as Mikhail Glinka, Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, and Igor Stravinsky. These collaborations have helped to cement Pushkin's legacy as a cultural icon in Russia and beyond.

Final Years and Death

In his later years, Pushkin became increasingly critical of the Russian government and faced censorship and exile as a result of his politically charged writings. He died tragically in a duel on January 29, 1837, at the age of 37. Despite his untimely death, Pushkin's legacy as a literary giant continues to inspire and captivate readers around the world.