Anfim Efimovich Samdevyatov Character Analysis in Doctor Zhivago

Anfim Efimovich Samdevyatov is a lawyer, local notable, and prominent Bolshevik in Yuriatin who meets the Zhivago family on the train and takes a liking to them. Samdevyatov is contradictory figure who earnestly supports the regime, though he engages in illegal business and extralegally supports his friends without any scruples. Samdevyatov continues to serve as the Zhivagos’ protector, a role he also plays for Lara Antipova—and, later, Yuri and Lara when they relocate to Varykino.

Anfim Efimovich Samdevyatov Character Timeline in Doctor Zhivago

The timeline below shows where the character Anfim Efimovich Samdevyatov appears in Doctor Zhivago. The colored dots and icons indicate which themes are associated with that appearance.

Social Differences and Social Change Theme Icon

...them fully informed about his detainment. Tonya introduces Yuri to a new passenger, Anfim Efimovich Samdevyatov. Samdevyatov asks Yuri about his meeting with Strelnikov and tells the doctor that the Red... (full context)

Samdevyatov points out the landmarks of burning, bombed-out Yuriatin in the distance. He tells Yuri that... (full context)

Russian Culture and Christianity Theme Icon

Mikulitsyn, Samdevyatov explains, was exiled to Yuriatin as a young man and married the oldest of the... (full context)

...frequently call on him for medical help. By and large, however, the family depends on Samdevyatov’s generosity. The Zhivagos’ first harvest is quite successful, and they spend the winter resting and... (full context)

...himself again stopping up holes before lighting the stove. Noticing the firewood, he surmises that Samdevyatov has been giving Lara supplies, and he experiences a fit of jealousy. He then pines... (full context)

...her second child, Masha, named after Yuri’s mother. Yuri confronts Lara about her relationship with Samdevyatov. She tells him he has nothing to be jealous about; the conversation then turns to... (full context)

...poetic force of her recurring presence in his life. Securing a horse and supplies from Samdevyatov, they leave the city for Varykino, which is deserted and entirely covered in snow. The... (full context)

...the slow and imperceptible changes that outlast—and overcome—the history of great individuals, revolutions, and wars. Samdevyatov visits him, bringing him more alcohol and news that Lara successfully left Yuriatin with Komarovsky.... (full context)

Late in the afternoon, Yuri hears footsteps approaching the house. He wonders who it is—Samdevyatov would arrive on horseback, any arresting officers would come for him in a group, and... (full context)