What was the dog's name in The Heart of a Dog when he became human? - briefly
The Heart of a Dog is a novella by Mikhail Bulgakov. The dog's name, when he became human, was Sharikov.
The story explores themes of identity, transformation, and the ethical implications of scientific experimentation. The protagonist, a stray dog, undergoes a surgical procedure that transforms him into a human being. This transformation leads to a series of complications and moral dilemmas, reflecting Bulgakov's critique of the societal and ethical issues of his time. The narrative delves into the consequences of unchecked scientific progress and the potential dangers of meddling with nature. The character of Sharikov serves as a stark reminder of the potential pitfalls of such endeavors, highlighting the importance of responsible scientific practice.
What was the dog's name in The Heart of a Dog when he became human? - in detail
"The Heart of a Dog" is a satirical novella written by Mikhail Bulgakov, first published in 1925. The story is a scathing critique of the societal and political transformations occurring in Soviet Russia during the 1920s. The narrative revolves around a stray dog named Sharik, who undergoes a dramatic transformation into a human being.
Sharik, the dog, is a mongrel with a distinctive white patch on his chest, symbolizing his humble and mixed origins. He is initially a street dog, embodying the struggles and hardships of the lower classes in Soviet society. Sharik's life takes a dramatic turn when he is adopted by Professor Philip Philippovich Preobrazhensky, a renowned surgeon who specializes in transplant surgery. The professor, along with his assistant Dr. Bormenthal, performs a groundbreaking experiment by transplanting the pituitary gland and testes of a recently deceased man named Klim Chugunkin into Sharik. This surgical procedure results in Sharik's transformation into a human, who subsequently adopts the name Poligraf Poligrafovich Sharikov.
The transformation of Sharik into Sharikov is not merely physical but also psychological and social. Sharikov, unlike his canine predecessor, is rude, aggressive, and lacks the moral compass that Sharik, the dog, possessed. This change highlights Bulgakov's commentary on the dehumanizing effects of societal and political upheaval. Sharikov's behavior and actions reflect the negative aspects of the new Soviet society, where individualism and personal integrity are often sacrificed for ideological conformity.
The name "Poligraf Poligrafovich Sharikov" is a satirical construct, with "Poligraf" meaning "polygraph" or "many-writings," suggesting a lack of authenticity and depth. The double patronymic "Poligrafovich" further emphasizes the artificiality of Sharikov's existence, as it is a redundant and nonsensical combination. This naming convention underscores Bulgakov's critique of the artificial and often absurd nature of the societal transformations taking place in Soviet Russia.
In summary, the dog's name in "The Heart of a Dog" when he became human is Poligraf Poligrafovich Sharikov. This transformation serves as a powerful allegory for the societal and political changes occurring in Soviet Russia, highlighting the dehumanizing effects of ideological conformity and the loss of individual integrity. Bulgakov's use of Sharikov's character and name is a poignant commentary on the complexities and challenges of a society in flux.