"The Boor" novel was published in 1887 and is a lyrical and satirical work about the society of the late 19th century. The story takes place in a manor house in Western Ukraine, where a poor family lives together with a wealthy, but embittered and rude lord. The main character, landowner Simeon Poltoratsky, known as "The Boor," does not respect anyone except himself. His life changes after meeting Maria, the daughter of a former servant of the lord, who teaches Simeon mercy and compassion towards other people.