Master and Man

Compare and contrast the religious metaphor of master with the social-economic hierarchy as depicted in the story. What are the differences and/or similarities between “the Chief Master” (490) and a master such as Brekhunov—both in the sense of individual character and his social-economic position? You may argue that the relationship is primarily similar, primarily different, or some combination. In any case, support your answer with textual evidence.

The title of this story is typically translated as “Master and Man,” though the Russian original is more accurately rendered “Master and Worker.” Less a mistake than an interpretative rendering, the translation “man” is meant to capture what a more capacious understanding of “worker” seems to represents in the story. Describe why or why not “worker” and “man” can appropriately be considered synonymous, addressing the specific nature of “work” as it is rendered by the story and supporting your argument with textual evidence

The unequal and exploitative relationship between Brekhunov and Nikita implicitly raises the question of resistance. Consider what, if any, forms of resistance appear in the story—either on the part of Nikita or that of other subordinates (animals included).