The Little Demon

"The Little Demon" by Fyodor Sologub explores the life of Ardalyon Borisitch Peredonov, a schoolteacher in a small Russian town, who stumbles through a world of small-minded complaints, personal desires, and strained relationships. Peredonov's character is a mix of wanting more and the depressing setting that mirrors his internal chaos. The story starts with Peredonov talking with friends about marriage, especially to his cousin Varvara. His inflated ego shines as he dreams of being an inspector and thinks about his feelings for women, all while dealing with social pressures. As he wrestles with his own insecurities and the people around him, the town is painted with rich details, highlighting the overall sense of unease that reflects Peredonov's inner struggles, setting the scene for a story that blends humor and sadness, pushing readers to consider the complicated parts of human nature and what society expects.