Apollon Maykov, Russian poet and playwright (b. 1821)

Apollon Nikolayevich Maykov, a towering figure in 19th-century Russian literature, graced the world with his lyrical verse, deeply rooted in the heart of Russia's landscapes, its storied past, and the everyday lives of its people. Born into a distinguished artistic family in Moscow on June 4 [O.S. May 23], 1821, Maykov's path towards poetry seemed almost destined. His early life was steeped in intellectual and creative pursuits, setting the stage for a prolific career that would span decades and leave an indelible mark on Russian poetry.

Early Life and Education of Apollon Maykov

From his earliest days, Apollon Maykov was surrounded by a stimulating environment. His father, Nikolay Apollonovich Maykov, was an academician of painting, and his mother, Yevgeniya Petrovna Maykova, was a writer. This rich artistic heritage undoubtedly fostered his nascent talents. He received a rigorous home education, counting among his tutors none other than the renowned writer Ivan Goncharov, celebrated for his novel Oblomov. It was in this nurturing setting that Maykov began penning his first poems at the tender age of 15. Demonstrating remarkable intellectual prowess, he completed his gymnasium course in a mere three years—a feat that speaks volumes about his dedication to learning. By 1837, Maykov enrolled in Saint Petersburg University, continuing his academic journey in one of Russia's foremost intellectual hubs.

A Poet's Journey Begins: Debut and Early Success

Maykov's literary career officially began in 1840 when his first poems found their way into print. This initial foray quickly led to the publication of his first collection of poetry in 1842. The collection was met with significant critical acclaim, most notably from Vissarion Belinsky, one of Russia's most influential literary critics of the era. Belinsky's favorable review immediately positioned Maykov as a promising voice in the burgeoning Russian literary scene. Following this initial success, Maykov embarked on an extensive journey across Europe, broadening his horizons and enriching his perspective before returning to Saint Petersburg in 1844. Upon his return, he resumed his passionate pursuit of poetry, while also branching out into literary criticism and essay writing, demonstrating his versatility and profound engagement with the intellectual currents of his time.

Themes, Translations, and Musical Interpretations

Maykov's poetry is best known for its vivid portrayal of Russian villages, the beauty of nature, and the dramatic sweep of Russian history. However, his profound love for ancient Greece and Rome, subjects he diligently studied throughout his life, also permeates his works. These classical influences lent a unique depth and scholarly elegance to his verse. Beyond his original compositions, Maykov was an accomplished translator, dedicating four intensive years to translating the ancient epic The Tale of Igor's Campaign (1870) into modern Russian. This monumental undertaking made one of the foundational texts of Russian literature accessible to new generations. His translation work extended beyond Russian history to the folklore of Belarus, Greece, Serbia, and Spain, and included European literary giants like Heinrich Heine, Adam Mickiewicz, and Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. So resonant and melodious were Maykov's poems that many were set to music by leading Russian composers of the period. Among them were the giants of classical music, Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov and Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, further cementing his place in Russia's rich cultural tapestry.

Literary Connections and Shifting Ideologies

Throughout his extensive career, Apollon Maykov remained a prolific writer, yet his political and philosophical leanings saw him waver between the conservative and liberal camps—a common intellectual dilemma in 19th-century Russia. In his liberal phases, he was closely associated with prominent figures like Vissarion Belinsky, Nikolay Nekrasov, and Ivan Turgenev, engaging in the lively debates that shaped the future of Russian society and literature. Conversely, during his more conservative periods, he found common ground with Fyodor Dostoyevsky, the celebrated author of psychological novels like Crime and Punishment and The Brothers Karamazov. This ideological fluidity, while perhaps reflecting the tumultuous times, did not diminish his steady output of high-quality poetical works. Maykov ultimately concluded his life as a conservative, a journey that reflected the complex intellectual landscape of Russia. He passed away in Saint Petersburg on March 20 [O.S. March 8], 1897, leaving behind a profound legacy of lyrical beauty and historical insight.

FAQs About Apollon Nikolayevich Maykov

Who was Apollon Nikolayevich Maykov?
Apollon Nikolayevich Maykov was a prominent 19th-century Russian poet, celebrated for his lyrical verse that beautifully depicted Russian nature, village life, and historical themes.
When and where was Apollon Maykov born?
He was born on June 4 [O.S. May 23], 1821, in Moscow, Russia.
What kind of poetry did Maykov write?
Maykov specialized in lyric verse, often drawing inspiration from Russian folklore, history, and the natural world, while also incorporating his lifelong study of ancient Greece and Rome.
What famous works did he translate?
His most significant translation was the ancient Russian epic The Tale of Igor's Campaign. He also translated folklore from various European countries and works by authors like Heine, Mickiewicz, and Goethe.
Which famous composers set Maykov's poems to music?
Several renowned Russian composers, including Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov and Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, were inspired by Maykov's poetry and set his verses to music.
What were Apollon Maykov's political leanings?
Maykov's political views shifted throughout his life, sometimes aligning with liberal thinkers like Belinsky and Turgenev, and at other times with conservatives such as Dostoyevsky. He ended his life leaning conservative.
When did Apollon Maykov die?
Apollon Nikolayevich Maykov passed away on March 20 [O.S. March 8], 1897, in Saint Petersburg.