The Lower Depths
The Lower Depths
Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1902
Book Brief
80
Play • Fiction
Russia • 1900s
1902
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Lower Depths by Maxim Gorky follows a diverse group of impoverished Russians living in a dilapidated shelter near the Volga River, where they grapple with harsh realities and self-deception. The actors’ lives intertwine as they navigate daily struggles, conflict, and fleeting hopes, ultimately converging on themes of despair and fleeting illusions.
Dark
Gritty
Melancholic
Challenging
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
5,005 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Maxim Gorky's The Lower Depths is praised for its raw and poignant depiction of Russian society's underclass, highlighting themes of despair and resilience. Critics commend the complex, lifelike characters and the stark, immersive setting. However, some find the narrative's bleakness overwhelming and its structure somewhat chaotic. Overall, it remains a powerful social critique.
Who Should Read The Lower Depths?
Ideal for readers who appreciate stark, realistic portrayals of the human condition, The Lower Depths by Maxim Gorky appeals to those fascinated by themes of poverty and despair. Comparable to Dostoevsky's Crime and Punishment and Steinbeck's The Grapes of Wrath, it attracts fans of social criticism and deep psychological insights.
5,005 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
80
Play • Fiction
Russia • 1900s
1902
Adult
18+ years
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