(336 words) The work of A. Pushkin “The Captain's Daughter” is rich in a variety of characters: cowardly villains, brave warriors, desperate rebels, etc. But no less remarkable are the female images that the author created with love and respect for Russian girls famous for devotion, courage and fortitude.
The most memorable female image is Marya Mironova, that same captain’s daughter. This is a beautiful, but timid girl who, by the end of the work, conquers her fear and helps her lover out of trouble, reaching the Empress herself. The character of the heroine was formed in the rural wilderness, where she almost did not communicate with anyone. At the beginning of the work, the reader practically does not notice her, because the commandant’s daughter has very few words, it even seems that Marya is an ordinary village simpleton without manners and education. Even her appearance looks fresh: blond hair, a round face, and blush. But really her nature is revealed in moments of danger, when, for example, she is not inferior to the harassment of Shvabrin, faithfully waiting for Peter. Pushkin intentionally describes the captain’s daughter with actions, not speeches. The real female essence, in his opinion, is known in trouble when a man needs to substitute his shoulder. Mary withstands the test and seeks the release of Peter. In addition, the modesty and virtue of the girl conquer the strict parents of Grinev. They thought that Mironov was interested in the capital of their son, but the honest heroine does not accept marriage of convenience. Even before Peter's arrival, she received a generous offer from Schwabrin, but refused.
Vasilisa Egorovna is the mother of Mary. Looking at her, we understand that the girl received the right education. This woman is a patient, strong and moral mother of the family. She supports the spouse in everything. It is decorated with kindness, hospitality and thrift. She is perfectly managed in the kitchen, she is engaged in needlework, the whole fortress flourishes under her leadership. Unlike a nonchalant husband, she has a sober, practical mind, her surroundings are listened to. Thanks to her curiosity and ability to get along with people, the captain knows everything that happens in his garrison. This image is the ideal of a mature Russian woman who, with age, becomes only wiser and more penetrating. Such a wife is a reliable support for a man.
Thus, Marya and Vasilisa are the same type in different age categories. Alexander Pushkin depicted the full life cycle of a real Russian woman: from a cowardly girl to wise-experienced matrons.
