Semantics of Oblomov's image in I. A. Goncharov's novel and criticism

The article reveals the popularity of the Jungian approach in studying the image of the hero of the most famous novel by I. A. Goncharov. At the same time, a hypothesis is made about the legitimacy of the so-called “biased” approach to understanding Oblomov, according to which Christian axiology serves as the key to understanding the image of the protagonist. All the following arguments are proof of this thesis. The comparison of Ilya Oblomov with Stolz and Olga Ilyinskaya is revealing and allows to offset their differences. The author of the article proves that, unlike the latter two, Oblomov was not conceited or cunning, and is able not to respond to evil with evil even in the most difficult moments. Even Oblomov’s matrimonial choice, which is often interpreted in connection with the involution of his psyche, seems consistent and justified in the light of Christian axiology: Oblomov chose not only a hospitable, but also a good-natured woman, alien to Ilyinskaya's selfishness and conceit. In addition, the article considers the parallel “Ilya Muromets - Ilya Ilyich”, supplemented with new observations, and also concludes that the similarity between the Russian hero and the Goncharov’s character is internal rather than internal. Like an Orthodox saint, Oblomov is capable of feats of generosity and love.