The Double

What does Golyadkin’s morning ritual say about his character? Focus on how his morning ritual shifts once the double emerges.

Consider the relationship between Petrushka and Golyadkin. Given Golyadkin’s preoccupation with wealth, why might Petrushka be the only character to speak to the existence of the double? What does this suggest about the function of wealth in the text?

Does the appearance of wealth appear to bring Golyadkin any joy? Compare moments when Golyadkin shops or rides in his carriage with his moments of interaction with his colleagues and superiors. How and why are these moments different, and what do they reveal about Golyadkin?