What kind of dog is Voland? - briefly
Voland is a German Shepherd. This breed is known for its loyalty and intelligence.
What kind of dog is Voland? - in detail
Voland, also known as Koroviev or Fagott in some translations of Mikhail Bulgakov's "The Master and Margarita," is depicted as a large, black dog with unusual intelligence and supernatural abilities. While his exact breed is not explicitly stated in the novel, his description and behavior suggest several possibilities.
One prominent theory is that Voland is based on a Black Russian Terrier (BRT), a breed developed in the Soviet Union during the 1950s for military and police work. This breed is known for its size, strength, and intelligence, which align with Voland's portrayal. Additionally, the BRT was designed to be loyal and protective, traits that are evident in Voland's interactions with his master, Woland (Satan).
Another possible inspiration for Voland could be the Moscow Watchdog, a large, powerful breed developed from crosses between St. Bernard dogs and local Russian breeds like the Caucasian Shepherd Dog and Central Asian Shepherd Dog. This breed is known for its vigilance, loyalty, and protective nature, all of which are reflected in Voland's character.
Regardless of his exact breed, Voland's depiction as a large, black dog serves a significant purpose in the novel. His size and color are often associated with power, mystery, and the unknown, which is fitting for a character who is ultimately revealed to be a demon. Furthermore, his intelligence and supernatural abilities set him apart from ordinary dogs, emphasizing the extraordinary nature of the events unfolding in "The Master and Margarita."
In conclusion, while Voland's exact breed remains unspecified, his description and behavior suggest that he is inspired by large, intelligent, and protective Russian dog breeds. His portrayal as a supernatural being with exceptional abilities serves a crucial role in the narrative, highlighting the fantastical elements of Bulgakov's masterpiece.