The main character of one of Belkin's novels "shot" is Silvio. This is a mysterious and original character who attracts the attention of readers from the first seconds of his appearance in the story.
Describing the characteristics of the character of Silvio, the writer says about his excessive sullenness and some rudeness in dealing with other people, he is not like the rest of the officers. It is known that he could shoot masterfully, for which many officers respected him very much.
The key episode is the narration of Silvio about an interesting case that changed his life. After a major quarrel with the count a few years ago, he realized that the task before him was to fight a duel. The opponent in question had shown absolute indifference in the face of death during the battle. The count fired first. The enemy missed, hitting Silvio's cap. When it came to Silvio's turn, he saw the count's face completely expressionless as he stood eating cherries. Obviously, this state of Affairs did not suit Silvio, he had been looking for a long time for a good opportunity to take revenge, and, thanks to a lucky combination of circumstances, it appeared…
The count became an exemplary family man, a happy man who had something to lose and something to value for his no longer meaningless existence. Silvio took advantage of this. Again, the first shot count. He misses again and hits the painting. Next it's Silvio's turn. At that moment, it was not the outcome of the contest that mattered to Silvio, but the moral torment of the count, who a few years ago had not regarded life as of the greatest value. Seeing the fear in the count's eyes, and listening to his wife's pleas, Silvio leaves him alive.
Silvio demonstrates such qualities as honor and will. Despite the grievance that the main character suffered through several years, he showed sympathy for the enemy. This act can be considered noble.
