 Markov's major novel, "Black Earth Field" (Черноземное поле, 1878), eulogized the simple, close-to-nature life of an idealized, well-cultured Russian landlord.Even more retrograde was his collection of autobiographical notes and sketches "Barchuki" (Барчуки, 1874), full of nostalgia for 'simple and quiet virtues' of the old Russia's serfdom.What stood the test of time better was his legacy of traveller sketches, notably the popular "Sketches of Crimea" (Очерки Крыма, 1872), as well as "Sketches of Caucasus" (Очерки Кавказа, 1887), "Journey to the East" (Путешествие на Восток, Vols.