The message that a poet in Russia is more than a poet, known since Soviet times, has been questioned by some critics. However, the biography and work of Peter Pavlovich Ershov harmoniously fits into this formula. A conscientious official and a talented person made his modest but significant contribution to the cultural code of the people.
In the register of Russian literary masters, Pyotr Pavlovich Ershov is listed as a children's writer. There are strong arguments for this. Without any exaggeration or exaggeration, we can say that the fairy tale in verse "The Little Humpbacked Horse" was read or listened to by all the children of the Soviet Union. Today this state does not exist, but the fairy tale remains. It is interesting to note that the author was only 19 years old when he presented his work to the judgment of readers and venerable critics.
Traveling childhood
The biography of Peter Ershov is simple and standard, like a Siberian felt boot. The child was born into the family of an official on ordinary instructions Pavel Ershov. Employees of this rank, as they say, pulled the bulk of the work. Father's career developed according to the standard scheme, without ups and downs. He often had to move from one settlement to another. Naturally, the family followed him. The growing Petrusha had the opportunity to observe the course of everyday life, remember vivid episodes and indulge in reflections. The future author of the famous fairy tale learned firsthand how the Russian peasant lives, what he values and what he strives for.
The bosses appreciated the diligence and professionalism of the father. He was noticed and transferred to serve in the capital. By this time, it was time for the children to receive a decent education. The big city made a tremendous impression on the young provincial. A talented young man enters the Imperial University and plunges headlong into a mess of social events. Meanwhile, pleasant and sad events take place in life at the same time. The father unexpectedly dies and after a while the elder brother. And Peter writes his first fairy tale about the Humpbacked and submits it for review to Alexander Sergeevich Pushkin. The famous and recognized classic of Russian literature gave a positive assessment to the work of the young talent.
In native land
After the death of his father, it became impossible to live in Petersburg. There was simply not enough money. Creativity in the literary field brought sheer pennies. Suitable work, allowing to make ends meet, was only in their small homeland, in Siberia. Teaching philosophy and plate at the Tobolsk gymnasium allows you not to die of hunger. An unsettled personal life also does not add optimism to the daily stream of worries. There is neither time nor energy for literary studies. By coincidence, Peter married a widow with four children. Whether it was sincere love or pity, it is difficult to formulate unequivocally. A few years later, his wife dies and Ershov's worries increase.
Over time, the bosses notice and acknowledge the executive and diligent teacher. Pyotr Pavlovich was promoted and transferred to the position of gymnasium inspector. In this status, he comes to life and returns to creative activity. Much effort is devoted to introducing new, progressive teaching methods. To unleash the talents and abilities of students from an early age. And these efforts are yielding due results. In recent decades, Ershov has directed not only the gymnasium, but also the female schools operating in Tobolsk. Hard work in the field of education did not bring him worthy fame. This is not to be regretted, because descendants love, read and know the tale about the Little Humpbacked Horse.
