Religious doctrine in the works of Mikhail Bulgakov (with special reference to Belaia Gvardiia, Beg and master I Margarita)

Abstract

This thesis will examine the works of Mikhail Afanasevich Bulgakov with special reference to Belaia gvardiia. Beg, and Master i Margarita. It shall be shown that Russian Orthodox Doctrine can provide a cohesive whole for his works, uniting them on a 'spiritual' level. At first an assessment will be made of the extent to which Bulgakov was a believing Christian, then the following examination of his works will be divided into the Divine and the Human, beginning with an examination of the Devil. The nature of Christ and God will then be considered and be shown to correspond on may levels with the tenets of Doctrine. In the second half, man and his relationship to God will be discussed, showing that the mortal condition of man and his attempts to come close to God are of importance to Bulgakov. Finally, his portrayal of man’s progression through judgement to the attainment of Salvation will be considered, showing that, despite some deviations, Bulgakov's artistic ideas are founded in Doctrine.