What was the name of the cat in The Master and Margarita? - briefly
The name of the cat in "The Master and Margarita" is Behemoth. He is a key character who accompanies Satan throughout the novel.
What was the name of the cat in The Master and Margarita? - in detail
In Mikhail Bulgakov's seminal novel "The Master and Margarita," the enigmatic figure of the black cat Behemoth holds significant narrative prominence. This feline character, with his uncanny ability to speak and his penchant for mischief, serves as a catalyst for much of the story's supernatural events and comedic relief.
Behemoth is introduced early in the novel, appearing first at Patriarch's Ponds, where he astonishes onlookers by performing seemingly impossible tricks. His presence sets the stage for the subsequent arrival of the devilish figure of Woland (also known as Satan), who uses Behemoth to challenge the mundane world and expose human frailties.
Throughout the narrative, Behemoth's antics not only entertain but also provoke thought about morality, free will, and the nature of reality. His interactions with other characters—from the bewildered citizens of Moscow to the literary figures that appear in Woland’s entourage—highlight the absurdities and hypocrisies of society.
Behemoth's name itself carries symbolic weight. In Jewish mythology, Behemoth is a colossal beast, often associated with chaos and primordial forces. This choice of name underscores the cat’s role as an agent of disruption and change, embodying the unpredictable and the extraordinary within the novel's framework.
In summary, the character of Behemoth in "The Master and Margarita" is not merely a talking cat; he is a literary device that embodies the themes of chaos, transformation, and the supernatural. His presence enriches the narrative, adding layers of complexity and depth to Bulgakov's exploration of human nature and spirituality.