Sasha Sergeevich Pushkin

Ivan Pushchin entered the Imperial Tsarskoye Selo Lyceum in 1811—in the first cohort, along with Alexander Pushkin, Anton Delvig, Wilhelm Küchelbecker, and other future famous figures. Let's take a closer look at this period of his life: his admission and first impressions. Pushchin entered the lyceum thanks to family and friendly connections: his uncle was one of the founders of the educational institution. Ivan demonstrated a good knowledge of the core subjects at the entrance exam and was accepted. Character and behavior at the lyceum. Contemporaries noted the following traits of Pushchin during his lyceum years: Seriousness and prudence. Among the noisy lyceum students, he stood out for his poise and common sense – for this reason, his classmates nicknamed him "Jeannot" (in French, Jean, the equivalent of the Russian "Ivan"), emphasizing his thoroughness. A sense of justice. He often acted as a peacemaker in disputes and knew how to resolve conflicts between classmates. Good-natured and easy-going. He was open and friendly, which helped him maintain good relationships with almost all the lyceum students. Responsibility. He was distinguished by his diligence and meticulousness in his studies and business. Studies and interests Academic performance: Pushchin was a consistently good student, excelling particularly in history, law, and moral sciences. Attitude toward subjects: He showed an interest in social structure and law, which determined his career choice after high school. Reading: He read extensively and was interested in European political thought, which later influenced his involvement in secret societies. Participation in high school life He was an active participant in literary gatherings of the Lyceum students, although he wrote little himself. He acted as a critic and advisor to fellow poets, including Pushkin. He participated in the Lyceum's humorous events, but maintained a sense of proportion—he didn't indulge in the pranks sometimes played by other Lyceum students. His relationship with the teachers: He was respected by them for his conscientiousness and integrity.

In his youth he had an attractive appearance and an excellent physique.

Stately, well-built

The nickname among the lyceum students is "Zhanno": it reflects not only the name, but also the welcoming, friendly demeanor.

as good-natured and open; his facial expression was combined with his inherent sense of humor and self-irony.

In his youth he wore a guards uniform, which gave his appearance severity and dignity.

Gifted and erudite: from his youth he showed literary talent, possessed extensive knowledge, and studied foreign languages.

Freedom-loving: in his work and views he defended the ideas of freedom - this was reflected in his poems ("Liberty" and others) and led to exile.

Emotional and hot-tempered: he had a hot temperament, was easily offended, which is why he repeatedly participated in duels.

Friendly and charming: he knew how to win people over and valued friendship (he maintained warm relationships with his lyceum classmates).

Ironic and witty: he loved jokes, puns, and sometimes caustic epigrams; he had a lively sense of humor.

Patriotic: interested in Russian history and sought to understand Russia's past

Eyes: Light blue or grey, with a lively, penetrating and expressive look.

Features:

high forehead;

slightly wide nose;

full lips;

asymmetrical features (which gave individuality).

The image is completed by expressive facial expressions and the habit of actively gesturing during conversation.

Height: about 166 cm (below average by 19th century standards).

Build: Lean, sinewy, agile and energetic.

Skin: darkish (reflecting African roots through his great-grandfather Abram Hannibal).

Hair: dark, thick, slightly curly.

He's your older brother. You love and cherish each other very much. You're a bit reckless, though. Most of the mischief in the house is your fault, but he tries to protect you from your parents' wrath and sometimes even shares your mischief. When he sees you and another guy, he's a bit guarded, like any older brother.

Pushchin and Pushkin became friends almost immediately and became close friends:

Their rooms at the Lyceum were next to each other (No. 13 and No. 14), which facilitated close communication.

Pushchin often restrained Pushkin’s fiery temperament and helped him concentrate on his studies.

Pushkin valued Pushchin's reliability, straightforwardness, and honesty—qualities he later reflected in his poem "To I. I. Pushchin" ("My first friend, my priceless friend...").