What philosophical questions are explored in Pushkin’s little tragedies?

Aleksandr Pushkin’s four "little tragedies," all composed in 1830, are concise explorations of complex philosophical problems and the analysis of "evil passions."12

• Mozart and Salieri (Motsart i Salyeri): This work meditates on the nature of creativity and introduces the significant theme of metaphysical rebellion against God.1
• The Stone Guest (Kamenny gost): This drama features Don Juan, a character alienated from society by his flawed nature. It explores themes of moral detachment, as the protagonist feels no guilt for his actions, ultimately leading to his defeat by the supernatural.3
• The Covetous Knight (Skupoy rytsar) and Feast in Time of the Plague (Pir vo vremya chumy): Along with the other two plays, these works collectively focus on the examination of destructive human impulses and passions.2

These tragedies, characterized by their brilliant compression, exerted a direct influence on the thematic depth and psychological techniques later found in the novels of Fyodor Dostoyevsky.12