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The Library
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Eugene Onegin, Part 1, Part IV summary

Part 1, Part IV of 368 · 1 min to read the part

In IV, Eugene seeks relief from boredom by considering economic changes on his large estate and replacing compulsory peasant labour with a lenient payment. The peasant welcomes the change, but a thrifty neighbour condemns it, and others join in judging Eugene foolish and dangerous.

What happens

  1. Alone on his large estate, Eugene considers economic schemes to relieve his boredom.
  2. He replaces compulsory labour with a lenient payment.
  3. The peasant welcomes this improvement in his condition.
  4. A thrifty neighbour privately condemns the concession, while others mock Eugene and agree that he is dangerously foolish.

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In this part

What to notice

The neighbours unite in condemning Eugene. Their judgment contrasts with the peasant’s gratitude for the same reform.

Quick check

What change does Eugene make to the peasant’s obligations?

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