2 Devichy Convent: Actually the Novodevichy Convent, founded by Basil III in 15 24, on the spot where, according to legend, maidens (devitsy) were gathered to be sent as tribute to the Mongols. Nikolai Gogol’s remains were transferred there in the 1930s, and many members of the Moscow Art Theatre are also buried there, including Bulgakov himself.
Epilogue
1 the festal spring full moon: The first full moon after the vernal equinox, which determines the date of the feast of Passover and thus of Easter.
