Why has The Lower Depths remained popular in Russia and abroad?

The Lower Depths remains a significant work of dramatic literature because of its profound, naturalistic examination of society’s outcasts. By setting the play in a dilapidated flophouse, Maxim Gorky forces audiences to confront the bleak realities of those living on the margins of society.12

The play’s enduring appeal lies in its exploration of the human need for hope versus the harshness of truth. The character of Luka, a tramp who offers comfort through illusions, serves as a catalyst that highlights the fragility of the residents' lives. When Luka departs, the subsequent return to a grim reality—marked by violence and suicide—creates a powerful, lingering impact that continues to resonate with audiences both in Russia and internationally.1