In the novels that compiled the collection "Mosaic", the writer showed whole and strong characters that have not yet been touched by the decaying influence of civilization ("Tamango", "Matteo Falcone", etc.). Prose of the 1830-1840s - the pinnacle of the Merime novelist. Outwardly calm narrative, in which the author introduces false novels, allegedly found letters, unexpected historical excursions, gives credibility and authenticity to the whole story. The psychology of heroes is compressed and brightly revealed....