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Abstract:

The article analyzes the motif structure of A. Platonov’s short story “Spiritualized People.” Special emphasis is placed on the final episode. It turns out that the story is based on a long series of evangelical images and motifs: the immaculate conception; the atoning sacrifice; the transformation; the resurrection; the cross; the book containing the truth; death conquering death; wolves in sheep’s clothing; the cutting off of a hand. Taking into account the Christian allusions and reminiscences scattered throughout the text, one can discern the motive of the testimony in the final episode. It allows the writer to complete the story and at the same time leave the narrative horizon open. Building the ending according to the evangelical model, Platonov solves primarily an artistic problem. He manages to talk about the infinite within the framework of a finite text. Despite the death of the central characters, life is triumphant. And the writer does not need to speak about this directly, in the language of journalism, since the idea of immortality is realized in the structure of the work.