Bulgakov, Master and Margarita. Power of Light

Mikhail Bulgakov's novel The Master and Margarita is a work in which many themes and plots are intertwined. One of the most striking themes is the confrontation between light and darkness. In this context, the figure of Woland and his retinue plays a key role. Also an important part of the novel is the love of the Master and Margarita, which acts as a counterbalance to the dark forces of the world around them. Light and darkness in The Master and Margarita cannot exist separately from each other. It should be noted that Bulgakov does not divide the characters into ‘positive’ and ‘negative’, but shows that each of them can manifest both light and darkness.

Woland is a mysterious figure who seems to represent darkness, but not in a malicious way. He comes to show the truth, even if that truth exposes the dishonesty of people. In some interpretations, Woland becomes for Muscovites not darkness, but also an instrument of justice, which contradicts the generally accepted idea of ‘evil’. This aspect of his personality is interesting and creates ambiguity. For example, Woland's ball scene turns into a performance where each figure symbolises the weaknesses and flaws of society. By doing so he shows that the truth can open one's eyes to flaws, thus giving a chance to correct them.

For this reason, Woland can well be compared to the Slavic god Svarog. Svarog, in mythology, is associated with fire and sky, as well as with creation. Woland also, despite his mystical image, appears as a destroyer of illusions. He comes to Moscow to force people to face reality, which is often hidden behind false facades. Voland thus becomes not just the personification of evil, but a more complex figure who explores the nature of the human soul. His actions are reminiscent of those of Mahadev in the Hindu Vedas, who strikes a balance between good and evil. In this context, his character becomes more layered and difficult to comprehend. Woland, though he evokes fear, carries knowledge that opens the eyes. He becomes the link between light and darkness, where every problem gets its solution: https://youtu.be/RI4_sEorABE?si=kvYWEt9GvRbi6pHS

On the other hand, the light in the novel is embodied in the relationship between the Master and Margarita. This love is not perfect, but it is real and sincere. The Master, in fact, symbolises a lost man who was looking for light in a world full of darkness. The love of the Master and Margarita not only overcomes obstacles, but also helps the characters find their way back to themselves, overcome their weaknesses and recognise their strength. For Margarita, love for the Master becomes the meaning of life. It is remarkable that the sacrifice Margarita makes for her love emphasises the strength of their feelings. She is willing to do anything for him, even a bargain with the Otherworldly Force, thus challenging her fears, herself. This transformation, in which she undergoes a kind of ‘purgatory’, turning to the darkness within herself for the sake of love, is a sincerity that becomes a saving beacon for each of them. The scene with Marguerite's transformation into a witch is a symbol of her willingness to truly sacrifice for love. It is a powerful moment that demonstrates that true love requires courage and decisions, not just the slow flow of events in a familiar life: https://youtu.be/yIxrOUyRC4U?si=aIzJp7VJkKuwtPtF

Marguerite returns to her essence, healing and rebirth. Thereby healing the Master as well. For him, Marguerite becomes not just a love interest, but salvation. Seeing in Marguerite his inspiration and the Power of Truth, Love and Faith that overcomes any obstacle, the Master also becomes in the end what he should be, the Creator, finding the peace and home he never had before. This process of characters facing their dark sides builds an important arc of story development. Even while standing on the edge of darkness, they do not lose their light: https://youtu.be/LEKyQw-nj0E?si=rE85a9X0f3cM-fSc

Overall, The Master and Margarita is a complex work about the confrontation between light and darkness. Woland modulates the space where the drama unfolds. His image is multifaceted, and he does not always appear evil. On the contrary, he shows that light and darkness are parts of the same whole that help man to know himself.

The love between the Master and Margarita serves as a vivid contrast to this opposition, showing that even in the darkest of times, light can overcome darkness. Their story is a search for salvation and faith, which only sincere feeling can give. In this way, Bulgakov creates a complete and concise portrayal of human nature, inviting the reader to consider where the boundary between light and darkness lies in their own lives.

As we explore the images of Woland (Svarog) and the love between the Master and Margarita, we learn that light and darkness are not antagonists, but part of a whole that gives us a better understanding of ourselves.