" His life consists of fashionable clothes and dress, expensive vanity knickknacks and bronzes (Chapter 1, XXIV).

             On the other hand, Vladimir Lensky is a young, good-looking poet, "flower of age," and optimistic about his future and what it will bring. "He was too young to have been blighted by the cold world's corrupt finesse; his soul still blossomed out, and lighted.

             at a friend's word, a girl's caress." and "He sweetened up with fancy's icing the uncertainties within his heart; for him, the objective on life's chart was still mysterious and enticing" (Chapter 2, II, VI). It is true, as some critics say, that the characters of Onegin and Lensky are overblown, almost as a parody of themselves. However, this is what endears the readers to them. Are not all humans in reality parodies, as well? .

             The differences between the two men are clearly seen throughout the novel, especially in the way that they perceive love. Onegin, who is sour on life and himself, cannot accept the love of Tatiana. Whereas Lensky sees love as another one of life's exciting opportunities. Onegin, because of his experiences in life (or, perhaps he was just born this way), is cynical and expects the worst. Lensky, nave and yet to be hurt by the fickleness of life, is still open emotionally and blind. .

             The comparison of Onegin and Lensky is exemplified well in the ballroom scene and the duel. The first revolves around Onegin's seduction of Olga. Even though Olga is engaged to Lensky, Onegin deceptively decides to steal her from his friend. He whispers ballads, squeezes her hand, makes her face flush with pleasure, and takes her for a turn around the ballroom. Onegin assumes Lensky's romantic character to win Olga, and she is pleased to find a new Romantic hero and to distress her former suitor. After Lensky challenges Onegin to a duel and leaves the ball, Olga becomes tired of Onegin, as he is once again struggling with boredom.