The novel is accompanied by a rich selection of Turgenev's letters that illustrate his involvement in the critical controversy that surrounded the publication of Fathers and Children. Four of the most significant critiques of the day-by Dmitry Pisarev, Nikolai Strakhov, Apollon Grigorev, and Alexander Herzen-further enhance the reader's understanding of this critical firestorm.

Twenty-three critical essays-seven of which are new to the Second Edition-are organized around several themes: the issue of translation; politics, including Turgenev's liberalism, his view of revolution, and his attitude toward nihilism; and various literary aspects, including Turgenev's use of imagery, generational conflict, the role of women, and the growing impact of science on society.

A Chronology of Turgenev'slife and work and an updated Selected Bibliography are also included.