The Demon(1829-1839)

Lermontov is considered to be Russia's second-greatest poet, after Pushkin. He’s beloved for his many beautiful poems and verses in the Romantic style. His poetic fame came with his poem ‘Death of a Poet’, which he wrote upon hearing about the death of his idol, Alexander Pushkin. In it, Lermontov blames the authorities for the hero's death, which cost him his freedom – Lermontov was exiled to the Caucasus, which had a profound influence on his work. The mountainous landscapes, turbulent rivers and local beauties inspired many of his romantic poems, including one of his most important poems, ‘Demon’.

Several Russian composers wrote operas based on this work, while great artist Mikhail Vrubel created illustrations for it.

Translated by Alexander Condie Stephen, Publisher Trübner, 1875