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The original CliffsNotes study guides offer expert commentary on major themes, plots, characters, literary devices, and historical background. CliffsNotes on Fathers and Sons explores the social pressures and conflicts of mid-nineteenth-century Russia. When first published, the novel stirred terrific uproar, from conservatives and liberals alike. Follow the story of a nihilist as the novel's central figure, a person who "examines everything from a critical point of view... a person who does not bow to any authorities; who doesn't accept any principle on faith, no matter how hallowed and how venerated the principle is." This concise supplement to Ivan Sergeevich Turgenev's book about conflicts between generations covers the overall structure of the novel, actions and motivations of the characters, and the cultural context of the times. Features that help you study include Background on the author Chapter-by-chapter summaries and commentaries Descriptive character analyses Critical essay on the book's structure An interactive quiz and suggested essay topics Classic literature or modern modern-day treasure -- you'll understand it all with expert information and insight from CliffsNotes study guides.