What is the story of Pushkin’s poem Ruslan and Ludmila?

Ruslan and Ludmila is a mock-heroic folk epic by Aleksandr Pushkin, first published in 1820. The poem draws inspiration from the narrative styles of Ludovico Ariosto and Voltaire while incorporating elements of Russian folklore and an old Russian setting.12

The story follows the hero Ruslan, who is modeled after traditional Russian epic figures. The plot centers on his quest to rescue his bride, Ludmila, the daughter of Grand Prince Vladimir of Kiev. On their wedding night, Ludmila is abducted by the evil magician Chernomor. To save her, Ruslan must endure and overcome a series of trials and adventures.12

Although the poem was criticized by the established literary schools of the time for defying traditional rules and genres, it was a significant success that brought Pushkin widespread fame. The poet Vasily Zhukovsky famously honored the work by gifting Pushkin his portrait with the inscription, "To the victorious pupil from the defeated master."12