Gerasim seems to be a symbol of individuality and detachment from society. He stands on his own well, in his own little world due to his being a deaf mute. Although he is able to communicate with the other servants, there is not a distinct bond between them, other than the fact that they stay out of his way and he stays out of theirs. The other servants often wonder what's going through Gerasim's head which displays the true distance between them. Gerasim has adjusted and proved that he is successful alone.
Was Gerasim better off without women and Mumu?
Gerasim was much better off without women because of his lack of ability to relate to others. He seemed to be much different than the other servants, living in a society where people aren't looking to make friends, just trying to get their jobs done. This fact left him even more isolated from the group, and a dog was truly the answer. As long as he cares for and loves the dog, it's not going to run away, judge, or be scared of him. Gerasim seemed much happier with Mumu then he ever could have been with Tatiana.
Is Gerasim worthy of pity?
Gerasim is worthy of pity. The old lady took the only thing he loved away from him when it really wasn't causing any harm. If Gerasim hadn't been forced to hide Mumu in the first place, it probably never would have been barking all night. Gerasim had to kill Mumu himself. This mentally scarred him from ever wanting a dog again, so as to not deal with the pain again. Although I feel Gerasim of worthy of pity, he definitely does not need people to pity him to feel better. He continued to do his job at home better than before, and never showed any emotion concerning his dog, Mumu.
-Madison Garrett
