Under the Yoke: Analysis of Major Characters
"Under the Yoke" is a poignant narrative centered on the struggles and sacrifices of Bulgarian patriots during a period of oppression under Turkish rule. The main character, Ivan Kralich, embodies the spirit of resistance, having escaped from years of imprisonment and continuing to fight for his country’s freedom even after facing significant setbacks. His love interest, Rada, is a gentle orphan who becomes intricately entwined in his fight, showcasing the personal costs of political turmoil. Sokolov, the village doctor, adds a layer of eccentricity and patriotism, demonstrating how everyday individuals contribute to the revolutionary cause despite their lack of formal training.
The tale also features characters like Marika, the miller’s daughter, who represents courage and innocence, and Marko, another patriot who aids Kralich. The relationships among these characters highlight themes of love, sacrifice, and the impact of misunderstanding, particularly in the case of Kandov, whose unwanted attention leads to tragic consequences. This narrative encapsulates the harsh realities faced by those who stand against oppression, emphasizing the intertwining of personal and political struggles in a deeply affecting manner.
Under the Yoke: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Ivan Vazov
First published: Pod igoto, serial, 1889–1890; book, 1893 (English translation, 1893)
Genre: Novel
Locale: Bulgaria
Plot: Historical
Time: 1875–1876
Ivan Kralich (ih-VAHN KRAH-lihch), a Bulgarian patriot who has escaped after eight years of imprisonment by the Turks. He eludes pursuit and, having changed his name, finds a job teaching school. He is still a revolutionary, however, and after suspicion forces him to flee again, he leads a revolt that is soon crushed. Once more a fugitive, he takes refuge in a mill, where his sweetheart and an old comrade join him. All three are killed after a valiant struggle during an attack on the mill.
Rada (RAH-duh), a gentle orphan who teaches school. She and Kralich fall in love, and she goes to a nearby village to join him, but a misunderstanding and a crushed revolt force them to part. Rada, learning that Kralich is hiding in the mill, goes to aid him. There, she is killed in the Turkish attack.
Sokolov (soh-koh-LOHF), an eccentric Bulgarian. He is the village doctor, though without formal training, and a patriot. He is often a fugitive from the Turks. He dies in the attack on the mill with Rada and Kralich.
Marika (mah-RIH-kuh), the miller's young daughter. Kralich, hiding in the mill, is able to save her from attack by two Turkish policemen. She and her father then aid the fugitive.
Marko (MAHR-koh), a Bulgarian patriot who aids Kralich and Sokolov.
Mouratliski (mew-raht-LIHS-kih), Kralich's friend and fellow patriot, also a fugitive from the Turks. He poses as an Austrian photographer.
Ivan, called Kill-the-Bear, a giant, one of the members of Kralich's group.
Kandov (KAHN-dof), a student who makes Rada miserable by following her about. His attentions and pursuit are the cause of a misunderstanding between Kralich and Rada.