“And the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works.” — Revelation 20:12 (Epigraph to The White Guard)
Chapter 1: Turbulent Times in Kiev
The novel opens in Kiev during the winter of 1918, as the city is caught in the chaos of the Russian Civil War. The Turbin family—Aleksei, Elena, and Nikolka—along with their friends, try to maintain normalcy while political upheaval rages around them. The Germans, who had occupied Ukraine, withdraw, leaving a power vacuum.
Chapter 2: The Arrival of Petliura’s Forces
As the Ukrainian nationalist leader Symon Petliura’s army advances, panic spreads through Kiev. The Turbins and their circle debate whether to flee or stay. Aleksei, a former Tsarist officer, feels torn between duty and survival. Meanwhile, their loyal maid Anyuta tries to protect the household.
Chapter 3: The Turbins’ Refuge
The Turbins’ apartment becomes a sanctuary for friends and displaced officers. Elena’s husband, Sergey Talberg, abandons her to join the White forces. The family clings to their traditions, playing music and reminiscing about the past, even as artillery fire echoes in the distance.
Chapter 4: The Battle for Kiev
Petliura’s forces storm the city, and the Whites organize a desperate defense. Nikolka joins the fight, while Aleksei is wounded in a skirmish. The Turbins’ home is damaged, symbolizing the collapse of their old world. Amidst the violence, moments of humanity persist among the characters.
Chapter 5: Aftermath and Betrayal
The Whites retreat, and Kiev falls under Petliura’s control. Aleksei, delirious from his wounds, hallucinates a divine judgment of the war’s participants. Nikolka helps a wounded officer escape, displaying courage. The Turbins face an uncertain future as the Bolsheviks loom on the horizon.
Chapter 6: The Bolshevik Threat
Rumors spread of the approaching Red Army. The Turbins’ friends scatter—some join the Whites, others flee abroad. Elena receives news of Talberg’s betrayal. The family prepares for another wave of violence, knowing their world may never return to what it once was.
Chapter 7: The Storm Passes
As winter fades, so does Petliura’s short-lived rule. The Bolsheviks enter Kiev, marking the end of an era. The Turbins, though battered, remain together. The novel closes with a fragile hope—amidst destruction, their bonds endure, and the stars above Kiev shine indifferently on the changing world below.
Key Ideas
- The collapse of old societal structures during revolution
- Family as a refuge in times of chaos
- The futility of war and ideological conflict
- Personal loyalty versus political allegiance
- The persistence of human dignity amidst destruction
Who should read this book?
- Readers interested in Russian Civil War history
- Fans of literary family sagas with political undertones
- Those who appreciate tragic yet poetic war narratives
- Admirers of Bulgakov’s blend of realism and mysticism