Yevgeny Onegin Synopsis

Yevgeny OneginScene iThe Larins’ HomeLensky, a neighbor of the Larins and Olga’s bridegroom, unexpectedly bringshis friend Onegin, recently arrived from the capital, to visit them. The unknownguest causes a kerfuffle in the daily routine of the Larin household: no one hides their interest in him. Onegin doubts in the wisdom of his friend’s choice. The meeting with Onegin makes a deep impression on Tatiana.

Scene iiNight time Noticing Tatiana’s agitation, her nurse tries to distract her and calm her down. Left alone, Tatiana writes a letter to Onegin. She sees him as her chosen one. At dawn, Tatiana asks her nurse to deliver the letter to Onegin.

Scene iiiDay time Tatiana anxiously awaits an answer to her declaration of love. Onegin arrives. He is touched by Tatiana’s sincerity, but cannot reciprocate her feelings.

Scene ivTatiana’s Name DayLensky has persuaded Onegin to pay another visit to the Larins. But Onegin is irritated by everything. Deciding to punish Lensky for bringing him, he flirts with Olga. Olga’s prompt response to Onegin’s advances reduces Lensky to despair. He picks a quarrel with Onegin and challenges him to a duel.

Scene vMorning Lensky awaits Onegin. He thinks with pain and anguish about his life. Onegin, who arrives late, is reluctant to take the conflict to its conclusion. Both men feel privately that they have acted rashly. But it is too late, there is no going back. A shot is fired, Lensky is fatally wounded.

Scene viSeveral years later After a long absence, Onegin has returned to life in the capital and meets Tatiana. She is married and social life in the capital now revolves round her. He is shocked by the change in people’s attitudes to him. The transformation in Tatiana and the fact she is now out of reach arouse mad passion in Onegin.

Scene viiOnegin manages to obtain a meeting with Tatiana. His words ring with repentance and regret. Demanding that his passion be reciprocated, he extorts from Tatiana the admission she still loves him. But her decision to stay with her husband is final. Onegin is distraught.