What breed is Behemoth the cat from The Master and Margarita?

What breed is Behemoth the cat from The Master and Margarita? - briefly

Behemoth, the feline character from Mikhail Bulgakov's novel "The Master and Margarita," is often described as a large, black cat with a penchant for walking on two legs. The breed of Behemoth is not explicitly stated in the novel, but his characteristics and abilities suggest a fantastical, supernatural nature rather than a specific breed.

What breed is Behemoth the cat from The Master and Margarita? - in detail

The Master and Margarita, a seminal work by Mikhail Bulgakov, features a variety of intriguing characters, among whom Behemoth, the black cat, stands out prominently. Behemoth is a unique and enigmatic figure, embodying both feline grace and supernatural abilities. His character is a blend of mythological and literary references, which makes determining his breed a complex and fascinating topic.

Behemoth's physical description in the novel is somewhat vague, but he is depicted as a large, black cat with striking green eyes. This description aligns with several breeds, but it is his supernatural abilities and personality traits that set him apart from ordinary felines. Behemoth possesses human-like intelligence, the ability to speak, and even the capacity to transform into a human. These characteristics are not typical of any known cat breed, suggesting that Behemoth is more of a mythical or fantastical creature rather than a specific breed.

In literature, black cats are often associated with mystery, magic, and the supernatural. Behemoth's name itself is a reference to a biblical creature, adding to his mystical aura. The name "Behemoth" comes from the Book of Job in the Bible, where it refers to a massive, powerful beast. This biblical allusion underscores Behemoth's role as a symbol of immense power and otherworldliness.

Moreover, Behemoth's behavior and appearances in the novel are not consistent with any particular breed. He exhibits traits that are more aligned with folklore and mythology than with the characteristics of a specific feline breed. For instance, his ability to walk on two legs, smoke cigarettes, and engage in human-like conversations are all supernatural traits that transcend the boundaries of any known cat breed.

In summary, Behemoth's breed cannot be definitively determined based on the descriptions provided in The Master and Margarita. His character is a literary creation that draws from various mythological and folkloric traditions, making him a unique and unclassifiable entity. Behemoth's true essence lies in his symbolic and narrative functions within the novel, rather than in his adherence to any specific breed characteristics.