Why does the blacksmith Arkhip kills clerks but risks his own life saving the cat Dubrovsky? - briefly
The blacksmith Arkhip's actions are driven by his deep-seated hatred for bureaucracy and its representatives, whom he sees as corrupt and oppressive. Conversely, his selfless act of saving the cat Dubrovsky reflects his innate compassion and respect for life, even when it comes to animals.
Why does the blacksmith Arkhip kills clerks but risks his own life saving the cat Dubrovsky? - in detail
The dichotomy between Arkhip's actions towards clerks and his heroic attempt to save the cat Dubrovsky is deeply rooted in the societal norms and personal values of the time depicted in the story.
Arkhip, as a blacksmith, embodies the rugged, working-class ethos that often clashes with the perceived opulence and indulgence of clerks. Clerks, typically associated with bureaucracy and privilege, are seen by Arkhip and others like him as symbols of an unjust system that exploits common people. This class resentment is exacerbated by the clerks' tendency to flaunt their status, further alienating them from the working class. Thus, Arkhip's violent acts against clerks can be interpreted as a form of rebellion against this perceived injustice and inequality.
Contrastingly, Arkhip's bravery in saving Dubrovsky reflects his inherent compassion and respect for life, even when it comes to animals. This act underscores the blacksmith's complex character, revealing a deep-seated humanity that coexists with his violent tendencies. The cat, Dubrovsky, likely holds sentimental value or symbolizes innocence in Arkhip's eyes, prompting him to risk his life for its rescue. Moreover, this selfless act can be seen as a manifestation of Arkhip's code of honor, where he values loyalty and protection—qualities that transcend the boundaries of class and species.
In essence, Arkhip's duality is a reflection of the broader societal tensions and personal conflicts prevalent during his time. His actions towards clerks and his heroism in saving Dubrovsky are not contradictory but rather complementary facets of his character, shaped by the complex interplay of class resentment, compassion, and personal honor.