The Little Russian Servant

"The Little Russian Servant" by Henri Gréville is a 19th-century novella that showcases the dramatic difference between social classes and love that cannot be. The story probably follows Mavra, a young peasant girl, as she learns how to live and work in a rich family’s home and how she starts to have feelings for young Count Serge. The story tells of how Mavra starts working for a countess, doing things like embroidery and taking care of others. She really likes the countess and starts to fall in love with her son, Serge. Even though they are from different social classes, Mavra really values how she feels about the family. However, everything changes when Serge gets married, forcing Mavra to go back to her village feeling defeated. Later, she becomes a nurse for Serge's new baby, which makes her feel useful again. Mavra’s pure love and strong spirit show just how complex social classes and wanting to connect with someone can be.