We are first introduced to Sitnikov as “a young man of middle height, wearing an overcoat trimmed with frogs in the fashion of the slavophiles” (74). Sitnikov is a sycophantic pupil and old acquaintance of Bazarov, whom he reverentially follows. Like Arkady, he has been greatly shaped by Bazarov’s influence, although to a much greater extent. He is a member of the new and “improved” generation, though he is somewhat of a bum. He is cast as pompous and somewhat foolish, seemingly incapable of original thought. Sitnikov takes Bazarov and Arkady to the house of Madame Kukshina, an “emancipated” woman. Though he admires Madame Kukshina, he is a definite sexist, and when speaking of women he goes as far as to say “I despise them sovereignly and completely!” (81). Still, it is difficult to discern when Sitnikov’s claims are genuine and when they are affected to appease Bazarov. Sitnikov goes to a ball with Arkady and Bazarov, and when there, he points out Madame Odintsov to the two.