Paul Bashkirtseff

Overview

Marie's half-brother (or brother), son of Konstantin Bashkirtseff. Paul remained in Russia while Marie and her mother lived abroad in Western Europe.

Relevance to Marie

In August 1875, news arrives from Russia that Paul is enlisting as a voluntary soldier, manipulated by the Zankovsky family. He has fallen in love with the younger Zankovsky daughter, "qui se conduit mal" (who behaves badly), and is joining a regiment to be near her brother. This news causes Maman great distress. Marie's uncle Alexandre attempts to intervene.

Family Context

Paul's situation illustrates the divided Bashkirtseff family: Marie and her mother in Western Europe, Paul and the father's side in Ukraine/Russia. The family drama about Paul's military enlistment and the Zankovskys' influence is received only through letters.

References in Diary

• First mentioned: 1875-08-17 (enlisting as soldier due to Zankovsky influence)
• Also mentioned in later carnets (066, etc.) when family matters from Russia arise