What did the cat get offended by in Kuprin's story? - briefly
In Alexander Kuprin's story "The Cat," the feline protagonist becomes offended when it is denied attention and affection by its owner, who is preoccupied with other matters. The cat's sense of being neglected and overlooked leads to its indignation and eventual retaliatory behavior.
What did the cat get offended by in Kuprin's story? - in detail
In Alexander Kuprin's story "The Duel," the cat plays a significant role as a symbol of moral corruption and indifference. The cat is offended by the lack of respect and dignity shown towards it, reflecting the broader themes of degradation and loss of humanity in the characters around it.
The cat's owner, Lieutenant Romashov, treats the animal with disdain, often kicking it or throwing objects at it for no reason other than his own amusement. This mistreatment offends the cat, who is shown to be sensitive and observant of the actions around it. The cat's reaction to this abuse highlights the depravity and moral decay that permeate the military environment in which Romashov operates.
Furthermore, the cat is offended by the general atmosphere of debauchery and immorality prevalent among the officers. Their drunkenness, reckless behavior, and lack of concern for others create an environment where even a small creature like the cat feels threatened and disrespected. The cat's attempts to find solace in its own space are often interrupted by the rowdy and careless actions of the officers, further emphasizing the pervasive disregard for anything other than their own pleasures.
In this context, Kuprin uses the cat as a metaphor for innocence and vulnerability amidst a corrupt and callous world. The cat's offense serves as a poignant commentary on the moral decline of the characters and the system they represent. Through its reactions and interactions with the officers, the cat underscores the deeper issues of dehumanization and moral bankruptcy that are central to Kuprin's narrative.