Nikolai Ostrovsky ​

Nikolai Alexeevich Ostrovsky was a Soviet author, best known for his novel "How the Steel Was Tempered." This work, considered a classic of Soviet literature, has been translated into many languages and made into several films. Ostrovsky is considered a symbol of personal self-sacrifice and social struggle.

Quick Facts ​

• Author of the highly influential socialist novel, How the Steel Was Tempered.
• The book was translated into many languages and was made into several films across the Soviet Union.
• Wrote plays and memoirs, as well as his best-known novel.
• Became a member of the Moscow branch of the Russian Association of Proletarian Writers in 1930.
• His novel is regarded as one of the most important works of early Soviet literature.

Background ​

Ostrovsky was born in 1904 in the Russian Empire. He was raised in a poor working-class family and he was orphaned at an early age. He began working at a young age to support himself. He had various jobs in factories and as a metalworker. During his time as a metalworker, he began writing. He was severely injured during his work and was bedridden for several months. His injury and subsequent recovery period allowed him the time to write his first novel, "How the Steel Was Tempered". The novel was based on his own experiences and it became a classic of Soviet literature. Ostrovsky was a fervent Communist and his works reflected his belief in the values of the state. He continued writing until his death in 1936.

Writing Style and Impact ​

Ostrovsky is best remembered for his work "How the Steel Was Tempered", which has been described as a classic of Socialist Realism. His writing style was flat and straightforward, yet deeply moving, carrying a strong message about the Socialist cause and individual sacrifices. His work is credited for being inspirational, particularly among the young readers in the Soviet Union. It also provided a human perspective to the tribulations faced by the ordinary Russian people under the early Soviet regime.

Notable Works ​

• How the Steel Was Tempered (1932-1934)