The Master and Margarita: New Translation

The Master and Margarita is a seminal work by Mikhail Bulgakov, renowned for its intricate narrative and rich symbolism. This new translation breathes fresh life into a story that traverses the realms of fantasy, reality, and philosophical inquiry.

The Plot

Set against the tumultuous backdrop of 1930s Moscow, the novel introduces a mysterious professor of black magic, who reveals himself to be the Devil. His arrival catalyses a series of chaotic events that disrupt the lives of the city's cultural elite, exposing their hypocrisy and moral decay. Simultaneously, the narrative follows the Master, a tortured writer who has sought refuge in a lunatic asylum after facing persecution for his work. His love, Margarita, embarks on a daring journey to reunite with him, navigating the intersection of love, sacrifice, and redemption.

Themes

• Good and Evil: The novel delves into the duality of human nature, exploring the fine line between virtue and vice.
• Innocence and Guilt: Through the characters' struggles, Bulgakov examines the complexities of moral judgement and societal expectations.
• Art and Censorship: The plight of the Master serves as a poignant commentary on the role of the artist in an oppressive regime.

"Manuscripts don’t burn."

With its blend of satire, romance, and philosophical discourse, The Master and Margarita stands as a timeless exploration of the human condition. Readers who appreciate works that intertwine the surreal with the profound, such as those by Gabriel García Márquez or Franz Kafka, will find much to ponder in Bulgakov's masterwork.