The Dynamic Growth In City Of Thieves By David Benioff

The Dynamic Growth

David Benioff's hit title City of Thieves tells and follows the story of two young men in 1941, during the Nazi Siege and invasion of Leningrad or better known as Piter. The two young men have and leave a great impression on one another, and throughout the story, shape each other up to who they will become or will be. Through hardships, dire times, and battles, the two young men, Kolya and Lev, slowly grew to better understand each other and themselves. This adventure and journey blossomed many things upon them: things they never knew, be it, Friendship, Brotherhood, Fear, Courage, Romance and Love. This essay will go in depth on how this story unfolds the great tree that grew, representing the bond between Lev and Kolya.

Kolya is introduced as a charming, self-assured ladies man who initially comes off as arrogant and selfish. However, as the novel progresses, the readers get to see a softer side of Kolya, and his relationship with Lev plays a significant role in his transformation. Kolya's growth is most evident in the way he interacts with Lev. Initially, Kolya is dismissive of Lev, who he sees as timid and inexperienced. However, as they embark on their journey together, Kolya begins to take on a more protective role, as evidenced by the quote which is seen from Lev’s perspective; “Watching me with concern, Ill watch with you to keep you safe”(Benioff, page 160) and “Run! Said Kolya . . . Run, you little fool!”(Benioff, page 70-71) These statements illustrate the care Kolya has come to develop for Lev and how he is willing to put himself in danger to ensure Lev's safety. In contrast, Kolya’s relationship with Lev has also grown his trust and faith in him. As they encounter various challenges, Kolya demonstrates the level of faith and trust he has in Lev by betting his and a girl named Vika's life over a game of chess, putting their lives in Lev’s hands; “I believe in my friend. If he loses, put bullets in our heads.”(Benioff, page 269) Through this quote, Kolya shows a great deal of confidence and willingness to take risks, make sacrifices and

Early on in the novel, Kolya is secretive about his writing, quotes, and the novel he is writing himself, passing it off as a classic novel rather than what it actually is, all while preaching the Courtyard Hound. However, as his friendship with Lev develops, Kolya becomes somewhat comfortable enough to not deny the truth about his work when he is confronted, and is rather more concerned about whether Lev likes his literacy. This is demonstrated in the quote, "I think you're writing the Courtyard Hound . . . But did you like it?" (Benioff, page 194) Here, Lev confronts Kolya on his secret, and Kolya doesn't deny it, but more importantly, he asks for Lev’s opinion. This is a significant step for Kolya, who previously seemed more concerned with maintaining his image and avoiding embarrassment, over receiving feedback on his work. Furthermore, Kolya’s growth as a character is also evident in his confession to Lev regarding why he left his battalion. He reveals, You want to know the truth, don't you? About why I left my battalion . . . I hadn't been with a girl in four months. My balls were ringing like a couple church bells. You think I'm joking? I'm not like you. I don't have your discipline." (Benioff, page 105) This is a significant moment for Kolya, as he is not only admitting to a personal weakness of his, but also acknowledging that Lev possesses