How did Mikhail Lermontov’s observations of aristocratic life inspire his play Masquerade?

Mikhail Lermontov’s play Maskarad (Masquerade) was directly inspired by his critical observations of aristocratic life in St. Petersburg.1

After graduating from cadet school in 1834, Lermontov was appointed to the Life-Guard Hussar Regiment stationed at Tsarskoye Selo. During his time as a young officer in the capital, he spent a significant portion of his life immersed in the social circles of the elite. His firsthand experiences and critical assessment of the behaviors, intrigues, and social dynamics prevalent among the court aristocracy formed the foundational basis for the play.1