The Heart of a Dog is a novella that blends science fiction with sharp social commentary. The story centers on a stray dog named Sharik, who is taken in by a scientist, Professor Preobrazhensky. The professor performs an experimental surgery on Sharik, transplanting human organs into the dog, which causes Sharik to transform into a human-like creature named Poligraf Poligrafovich Sharikov.
Sharikov’s transformation and subsequent behavior serve as a biting satire of the Soviet attempt to create a new socialist citizen. Sharikov becomes a crude, vulgar, and opportunistic character, embodying the worst traits of humanity. The novella explores themes of identity, the ethics of scientific experimentation, and the clash between nature and nurture.
About the author
Mikhail Bulgakov (1891-1940) was a renowned Russian writer and playwright, best known for his novel The Master and Margarita. Born in Kyiv, Ukraine, Bulgakov studied medicine at Kyiv University and worked as a doctor before turning to literature. His experiences as a physician, combined with the turbulent political landscape of early 20th-century Russia, heavily influenced his literary works.
Bulgakov faced significant challenges during his career, including censorship and political oppression. Despite these obstacles, he produced a body of work that continues to be celebrated for its sharp wit, satirical edge, and profound commentary on Soviet society. His works often explore themes of power, corruption, and the individual’s struggle against an oppressive regime.
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