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Wladimir BienstockRussian-French journalist, writer, translator, collector
Date of Birth: 05.05.1868
Country:  France |
Content:
- Russian-French Journalist and Translator
- Parisian Life and Literary Contributions
- Translator of Russian Literature
- Controversy over Translation
- Legacy and Impact
- Final Years and Honor
Russian-French Journalist and Translator
Boris Binstok was born in Russia and graduated from Moscow University with a law degree. He worked as an assistant to a lawyer while also writing for the newspaper "Russkie Vedomosti," combining his legal profession with journalism.
Parisian Life and Literary Contributions
In the early 1890s, Binstok moved to Paris, where he wrote reviews of new Russian literature for the magazine "Mercure de France." He also collaborated with "Illustrated Russia" magazine. Along with his literary work, Binstok was involved in many organizations, including the Professional Association of Foreign Press in France and the Committee for Assisting Russian Writers and Journalists in France.
Translator of Russian Literature
Binstok's most significant contribution to the literary world was his translation of Leo Tolstoy's complete works into French. He also translated works by Dostoevsky, Chekhov, and Maeterlinck.
Controversy over Translation
While Binstok's translations were widely read, they were not without criticism. Tolstoy himself criticized Binstok for his translation of "What is Religion?" and "What is Its Essence?" Tolstoy accused Binstok of using inaccurate and overly complex language.
Legacy and Impact
Despite the controversy surrounding his translations, Binstok's work played a crucial role in introducing Russian literature to French-speaking audiences. His translations were influential in shaping the international perception of these works, later being translated into various other languages.
Final Years and Honor
Binstok died in 1933 and was buried in the cemetery at Poitiers. A memorial meeting was held by the Foreign Press Association in his honor. His collection of paintings, sculptures, and other artworks was auctioned at the Drouot auction house in Paris in December 1933.
