What was the name of the cat in the movie The Master and Margarita? - briefly
The name of the cat in the movie "The Master and Margarita" is Behemoth. This character is based on the novel of the same name by Mikhail Bulgakov.
What was the name of the cat in the movie The Master and Margarita? - in detail
In the classic novel "The Master and Margarita" by Mikhail Bulgakov, one of the most intriguing characters is Behemoth, the talking black cat. This character is central to the narrative's supernatural elements and is often associated with the devil himself. Behemoth's name has a profound significance in the story, reflecting his powerful and enigmatic nature.
Behemoth, derived from Hebrew, translates to "beast" or "monster," which aptly describes his mystical and otherworldly presence. He is introduced as the companion of Professor Woland (a pseudonym for Satan), appearing in Moscow to wreak havoc and expose the city's hypocrisies. Behemoth’s ability to speak, along with his sharp wit and sarcasm, serves as a stark contrast to the dullness and conformity of Soviet life.
The cat's name is not just a literary device; it carries deeper symbolism tied to the themes of the novel. Behemoth represents the darker aspects of human nature—greed, deceit, and corruption. His interactions with other characters often reveal their hidden flaws and vices, highlighting the duality between appearance and reality.
In cinematic adaptations of "The Master and Margarita," such as the 1994 film directed by Yuri Kara, Behemoth maintains his prominent role. The cat's name remains unchanged, preserving the essence of Bulgakov’s original work. This continuity ensures that viewers familiar with the novel can appreciate the film's faithfulness to the source material.
In conclusion, the name Behemoth is not merely a label for the cat in "The Master and Margarita"; it is an integral part of his character and the broader narrative. The moniker underscores his role as a harbinger of chaos and a mirror reflecting society's hidden sins, making him one of the most memorable characters in Russian literature.