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Illustrated portrait of Simonov

A character in Notes from Underground

Simonov

A reserved former acquaintance who reluctantly lets the narrator join Zverkov’s dinner.

What they want in The novella’s account

To organize Zverkov’s farewell smoothly and manage the unwanted guest without provoking an even more difficult scene.

The book

Cover of Notes from Underground by Fyodor Dostoevsky
Notes from UndergroundFyodor Dostoevsky, 1864

A brilliant, spiteful narrator argues against reason while sabotaging every chance at connection.

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At a glance

Connection
Former school acquaintance
Role
Organizes the dinner
Response
Reluctantly includes the narrator

Who they are in the book

Spoiler-free

Simonov is the one former schoolmate the narrator still visits, although neither man seems to enjoy the connection. He organizes the dinner and is visibly uncomfortable when the narrator insists on attending.

His limited tolerance is not friendship, but it gives the narrator the opening through which he creates the evening’s disaster.

How the book draws them

Appearance, manner, and tone — as the book sketches them, in our words.

  • Reserved young Russian manHis expression is controlled and uncomfortable.
  • Conventional 1860s suitHe blends into respectable society.
  • Avoidant gazeHe would prefer not to confront the narrator.
  • Contained postureDiscomfort remains socially managed.
  • Close engraved bustNo dinner or companions appear.
  • Muted teal accentThe cool green suits reserve.
What happens to SimonovHow the book leaves them, what happened after, and what the record says. Open when you're ready.

Simonov lends the narrator money and leaves with Zverkov’s group. The novella gives no later account of him.

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